Got DD 5.1 now. Even though menu doesn't show that, only stereo matrix. That was interesting. Anyway, switched from coax spdif connection to optical and was happy to see DD light on my amp was on all throughout movie on NBC last night and we heard seperate sounds in rear channels.

Picture using YPbPr looks acceptable but prefered DVI PQ on my Philips 42FD9954 when connected to antenna via HTPC. There is no mention of HDCP in Philips manual. How can I get this to work? They both have DVI connections.

thanks

Have now decided not to use 6200 cable box. Configuration with 6200 connected via YPbPR gave me no color intensity or tint control. With the HTPC configuration I had all of that and more from the source. Also we find the Philips pixel plus and automatic screen sizing to be superior features to what the 6200 provided. The picture just looks better. So were back to using the HTPC via DVI for antenna derived HDTV and for DVD. And the Philips built in tuner for NTSC.

Sorry of this is a stupid question, but I've only just received a 5100 from Comcast, and am setting it up with a 4:3 Sony XBR HD-capable TV. I've connected the box to the TV via the component connections, and everything is working fine.

However, whenever I tune to an HD channel which is displaying a 4:3 picture, I see black bars on all four sides of the picture. I understand that the TV is receiving a 16:9 image from the cable box, displaying it with bars above and below, and the 4:3 image only occupies the center portion of that image, causing the bars on the sides.

But is there any way I can have the cable box output a high definition signal in a 4:3 aspect ratio? Even if I have to set the box manually depending on what I'm watching, it would be worth it to have a full-screen, 4:3 hi-def picture.

Or does 1080i/720p/etc. necessitate a 16:9 signal?

Originally posted by pfhunt
But is there any way I can have the cable box output a high definition signal in a 4:3 aspect ratio?

I should mention that I've tried changing the 5100's "TV type" setting to "4:3 letterbox" or "4:3 pan-n-scan", and it made no difference. It seemed like the TV expects a 16:9 signal through the component input (or the 5100 is always sending one).

Any insights?

Originally posted by pfhunt
It seemed like the TV expects a 16:9 signal through the component input (or the 5100 is always sending one).

I think your STB is sending what it receives. The black bars are added at the source. On a Samsung component connection I think you can use a Zoom mode which enlarges the image an equal amount in all four directions. If possible you need to find something like that in your TV or STB.

Originally posted by htwaits
On a Samsung component connection I think you can use a Zoom mode which enlarges the image an equal amount in all four directions. If possible you need to find something like that in your TV or STB.

Thanks very much for the reply. I think you're right; the STB always receives a 16:9 image, and sends it to the TV. Unfortunately, the Sony doesn't have any zoom settings like you describe (at least, from what I could see in the standard menus - I don't know how to access the maintenance settings, which is probably just as well).

The 5100 STB has a "4:3 letterbox" setting and a "4:3 pan and scan" setting, both which sound like they support outputting a 16:9 hi-def image in a 4:3 aspect (by letterboxing or side-cropping the image).

Neither of these seem to have any effect on the HD channel picture I see on the Sony. Regardless of what TV Type I select, I always see either a full 16:9 image or a cropped 16:9 image, depending on what is being transmitted to the STB (which my TV then displays with bars at the top/bottom).

Has anyone else had a similar experience with this STB? What should I expect these "TV Type" settings to do? Do they only have an effect for SD signals?

Originally posted by pfhunt
The 5100 STB has a "4:3 letterbox" setting and a "4:3 pan and scan" setting, both which sound like they support outputting a 16:9 hi-def image in a 4:3 aspect (by letterboxing or side-cropping the image).

I'll "guess" that the "4x3 Letterbox" setting is for 4x3 image that has been masked (Letterbox) to create a wide aspect image. I know where to get such images on DVD's but not TV. :)

Pan&Scan is a wide screen image that has already been cropped to fit 4x3 on DVD's.

Maybe Motorola put those options in to work the way you expected but they never implemented them. :rolleyes:

Originally posted by pfhunt
I've connected the box to the TV via the component connections... Did you mean DTV connections? If not, the Sony should have separate digital or DTV connections and the box should be connected there.

Originally posted by bigalw22
Did you mean DTV connections?

I mean the three video connectors in red, blue and green. They seem
to be called "component" inputs/outputs in the TV manual, and support
480i/p, 720p or 1080i signals (although it upscales 720p to 1080i). But
I think they're analog.

The TV also has a DVI-HDTV video input, but the STB does not. It should
have, but it looks like it's been removed and steel-plated over.

Originally posted by pfhunt
I should mention that I've tried changing the 5100's "TV type" setting to "4:3 letterbox" or "4:3 pan-n-scan", and it made no difference. It seemed like the TV expects a 16:9 signal through the component input (or the 5100 is always sending one).

Any insights? From my experience (with 720p Component Video output selected), the "4:3 ... " settings affect the Composite and RF outputs but not the Component. They probably also affect the S-Video output and not the DVI.

Bart, thanks for the info. Sounds like I'm seeing a common behaviour.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=464986&perpage=20&pagenumber=110

Anyone have any suggestions for my problem on this thread?

Thanks,
Bill

someone posted a separate thread about this issue, but i figured I would post it here as well since it applies to the Comcast HD box...

after they rolled out the INDEMAND service in my area (Lewisvilee, TX which is just north of Dallas), my cable box was not outputting the 5.1 sound...I was just getting pro logic on my receiver.

However, if I was on channel that should have had 5.1, and I hit the INDEMAND button (which to took me to the INDEMAND menu) and then hit the LAST button to exit, the 5.1 sound turned on.

If I change the channel to a non 5.1 channel and then back to a 5.1 channel, sometimes it goes out again and I have to repeat the process...

Both of my Comcast HD boxes are doing this...

it is this happening to anyone else?

I call Comcast this morning and they said they would call me back, but I am not holding my breath...will call them later this afternoon...

BTW..they are both 6200 boxes...

Here's one I think is interesting. I'm connected to the internet via a wireless-G connection to a router which is then connected to a cable modem. What's interesting is whenever I connect and use the DCT6200 my internent crawls to a near stop. Anyone else experiencing interference between their cable boxes and cable modems?

I have no problem with this setup at my house, unless my daughter is on her cordless phone, then I have signal dropouts and total loss....
Linksys wireless GW and DCT-5100 and 6412.

yeah well maybe this is just a local phenomena. my hdcp/dvi is not enabled either. and I understand it should be.

got the same thing. but it kicked in for some shows. ready to shitcan this 6200 and go back to my computer installed atsc/qam tuner.

Question about the audio on the DCT-5100
I noticed that the 5100 has audio options labeled TV and and another labeled Stereo. The sound volume on the TV is louder when I use the TV setting, but is the sound Stereo? I switched to Stereo and, although a little lower volume, I can't really hear a difference. Does anyone know the differences between these two settings?

Originally posted by rshaw
Question about the audio on the DCT-5100
I noticed that the 5100 has audio options labeled TV and and another labeled Stereo. ... Does anyone know the differences between these two settings?

I believe the difference is in the dynamic range. TV is used to compress the dynamic range of sound for use on a TV's speakers. Stereo does not compress the dynamic range and is for use on "stereo" system, or rather surround receivers where the speakers are generally much more capable. Neither setting has anything to do with whether the sound is in Stereo vs Mono or some other format.

--Eric

Originally posted by EHHoffman
I believe the difference is in the dynamic range. TV is used to compress the dynamic range of sound for use on a TV's speakers. Stereo does not compress the dynamic range and is for use on "stereo" system, or rather surround receivers where the speakers are generally much more capable. Neither setting has anything to do with whether the sound is in Stereo vs Mono or some other format.

--Eric

Thanks, I'll go back to the TV setting as I'm running the sound through my TV.

Is there a way to get a skip function working on the 6208 with the supplied remote?

Im new to this forum and have been searching quite a bit for the answer to my problem but so far to no avail. My 6200 firmware was upgraded this week to allow me to use the DVI output. A problem has come up while using the DVI output that I just cant understand. During viewing of SD channels there is no problem but when I view HD channels I notice a lot of what I can only explain as blue static or snow throughout the entire picture as well as light but noticable blue lines running the width of my picture. Has anyone come across this problem? I think it may be the cable (computer DVI cable) or possibly the DVI port thats the problem since while using component cables I dont have this problem. Thanks for any input.

Originally posted by longkid
Im new to this forum and have been searching quite a bit for the answer to my problem but so far to no avail. My 6200 firmware was upgraded this week to allow me to use the DVI output. A problem has come up while using the DVI output that I just cant understand. During viewing of SD channels there is no problem but when I view HD channels I notice a lot of what I can only explain as blue static or snow throughout the entire picture as well as light but noticable blue lines running the width of my picture. Has anyone come across this problem? I think it may be the cable (computer DVI cable) or possibly the DVI port thats the problem since while using component cables I dont have this problem. Thanks for any input. Could be copy protection kicking in.

What version of firmware do you have now? I have v.7.15 and DVI is still not enabled. HDCP is not enabled in dianostic menu. DVI signal is only there for like a second and then goes blank. Is there an update I missed?

How do you check the firmware?

Im having the same issue with DVI coming on for a second, then dropping out completely.

I called my local Cox office and they said that DVI should be working, and Ive heard from others in my area they theirs works too.

When I reseat my DVI cable, video comes on for just a second, then drops out again, wtf?

EDIT:

Ok, I just read another post and it seems like maybe my display isnt HDCP compliant...

Im using a Dell 20" LCD Display (2001FP), can someone confirm that this display is not HDCP compliant?

Thanks!

Mine is a Philips 42FD9954 mfd Mar. 2004.

Does anyone know how to access the service menu of my philips?

podux,

Re: Any reason I should get a newer box?


IAW the Motorola data sheets, the RISC processor in the DCT 5100 is described as running at 300+ MIPS while the one in the DCT 6200-6400 series is described as running at 800 MIPS. A pretty big speed bump. I have seen no discussion on how this relates to observable performance differences.

Originally posted by aprather
...EDIT:

Ok, I just read another post and it seems like maybe my display isnt HDCP compliant...

Im using a Dell 20" LCD Display (2001FP), can someone confirm that this display is not HDCP compliant?

Thanks! Sounds like the exact behavior of a non-HDCP display. AFAIK, only the newer Dell LCD-TVs support HDCP. I don't think any of their "computer monitors" do.

Sorry, dude - Comcast doesn't trust your monitor.

Not sure if this is the right place to post this question, if not, please forgive me.

A friend of mine has a JVC television, 36 inch regular tube TV, not sure of the model number however. The also have a Comcast cable box, a Motorola DCT2244 cable box.

While her son was playing Playstation, the TV shut off and the timer on light on the front of the TV keeps flashing. The TV is plugged into the cable box, cable box into the wall. When I unplug the TV from the cable box and then re-plug it, I hear a click like you normally do when you turn on a tube TV. The timer light flashes solid for a few seconds, and then goes back to blinking. I tried rebooting the cable box first then plugging the TV back in, but to no avail.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Originally posted by joeinma
[snip] the TV shut off and the timer on light on the front of the TV keeps flashing. The TV is plugged into the cable box, cable box into the wall. When I unplug the TV from the cable box and then re-plug it, I hear a click like you normally do when you turn on a tube TV. The timer light flashes solid for a few seconds, and then goes back to blinking. I tried rebooting the cable box first then plugging the TV back in, but to no avail. [snip] Have them try plugging the TV directly to wall outlet instead of the switched outlet on the cable box. TV works ok -> cable box problem (call Comcast for a new box). TV acts same -> TV problem (or opportunity to upgrade).

Originally posted by joeinma
[snip] the TV shut off and the timer on light on the front of the TV keeps flashing. The TV is plugged into the cable box, cable box into the wall. When I unplug the TV from the cable box and then re-plug it, I hear a click like you normally do when you turn on a tube TV. The timer light flashes solid for a few seconds, and then goes back to blinking. I tried rebooting the cable box first then plugging the TV back in, but to no avail. [snip] Have them try plugging the TV directly to wall outlet instead of the switched outlet on the cable box. TV works ok -> cable box problem (call Comcast for a new box). TV acts same -> TV problem (or opportunity to upgrade).

<FWIW category>
After plugging in new 6412s' in 2 spots, one of the boxes suddenly kept resetting every time I'd try to send an IR code. Soon it would reset about 4-5x before settling down. I tried unplugging the box, calling comcast to send a "reset" signal, etc to no avail.

I then touched the box and realized how hot it was, I removed it from the TV stand (it was sitting on top of a TIVO but yet in an open rack with a small air space above it). Thinking it might just be overheating, I removed it from the TV stand and then not one reset since. I had already called comcast before the epiphany and the Service rep couldn't say she ever heard of the box just "spontaneously resetting." On the service tech visit, he clearly noted that they have had several problems with the early units overheating (he thinks it was the bigger, faster HD without adequate fans but this was only his (reasonable) opinion). He thinks some changes were made with later units.

Anyone else experience this?

Hello! I have a Sammy 4674 arriving tomorrow and *think* I've gleaned enough info from this thread to set it up properly (meaning: as best as is possible). Just want to confirm settings then ask a couple of questions.

The native res. on the set is 720 and I'm on Comcast w/a 5100 box.

Here's what I'm planning unless further enlightened:

STB set to 720p
480 override off
DVI connector to TV for HD

Will run coax cable direct (via splitter) to TV as this provided a significantly better pic than anything coming thru the STB on our 'old' Sony HD RPTV (connected via components to the 5100).

Questions
It sounds from the discussion here like it's not worth bothering having Comcast swap out my 5100 for a 6200 as there will be no improvement in SD/analog PQ. True?

Salesguy suggested an S-video connection for SD channels would be preferable to DVI. Question: Would an S-vid connection from the 5100 be better than the coax direct to the TV? It seems not, but perhaps someone has tried.

Despite having the box and HD, I still only subscribe to basic service (i.e., no DIGITAL tiers). Is there any improvement in PQ on the SD channels by subscribing to their Digital service? (Sammy has a $200 "rebate" for subscribing to digital).

Thanks in advance!

hi
thanx :)
bye

Originally posted by brentochan
Despite having the box and HD, I still only subscribe to basic service (i.e., no DIGITAL tiers). Is there any improvement in PQ on the SD channels by subscribing to their Digital service? (Sammy has a $200 "rebate" for subscribing to digital).


It's my opinion that digital cable stinks to put it strait forward. It's certainly NOT worth the outrageous $65.00/mo without any movie channels that Comcast charges. and just to be clear, all the channels you recive now will be EXACTLY the same, it's only channels like HGTV and high nubmer channels that will be digital... all your locals will still be non-digital.

On the $200 givt card from Samsung.. .the way I read that form is that it's for the purchase of digital HDTV, and if the cable compay requires additional packages such as digital basic, then obviously you have to subscribe to that package, in the case with ComCast, you only need the basic to add on the digital HDTV service (which you have now). If you read item # 4 on the form it states

"4) A copy of your first month's cable bill showing activation of the applicable high-definition cable video service from a participating cable company between 10/17/04 and 2/15/05."

It doesn't say you need the standard definition digital package [B]AND high-definition service? if you have a 5100 or 6200 box then you are receiving "Digital Cable service with HD"

I have a similar setup, 4674, Denon 2910, DirecTivo and the 6200 from ComCast. I sent in my rebate this way and i won't accept them declining it. it's an easy-win lawsuit and if it went to class action they would buckle on day one due to the unclear wording in their rebate form. the more that submit the greater the changes they will fulfill the forms.

My recommendation is the stick with what you've got right now although I don't know why you would run the coax strait to your TV, you probably wouldn't see any quality difference and for ease of use, it would be easiest to stay on one input. and I suggest you fill out and mail off for the $200 gift card.

I'm trying out the Motorola DCT-6412 PVR. As a ReplayTV owner, I'm finding that the HD content almost makes the lack of polish in the UI tolerable. But what really makes navigation tolerable is the fact that the Harmony database had a code for 30-second skip that I added to my Harmony H676. However, I'd really, really like to be able to jump forward or back or to a specific point in the show, the way I can with my ReplayTVs. Has anyone found a way to do that? As it is, getting to the 45 minute mark in an hour-long show when it starts at the beginning is painfully slow.

And I know, I should check RemoteCentral.com, and I will, but I was reading this thread and thinking about it, so I thought I'd ask.

Originally posted by kring
It's my opinion that digital cable stinks to put it strait forward. It's certainly [B]NOT worth the outrageous $65.00/mo without any movie channels that Comcast charges. and just to be clear, all the channels you recive now will be EXACTLY the same, it's only channels like HGTV and high nubmer channels that will be digital... all your locals will still be non-digital.

On the $200 givt card from Samsung.. .the way I read that form is that it's for the purchase of digital HDTV, and if the cable compay requires additional packages such as digital basic, then obviously you have to subscribe to that package, in the case with ComCast, you only need the basic to add on the digital HDTV service (which you have now). If you read item # 4 on the form it states

"4) A copy of your first month's cable bill showing activation of the applicable high-definition cable video service from a participating cable company between 10/17/04 and 2/15/05."

It doesn't say you need the standard definition digital package AND high-definition service? if you have a 5100 or 6200 box then you are receiving "Digital Cable service with HD"

I have a similar setup, 4674, Denon 2910, DirecTivo and the 6200 from ComCast. I sent in my rebate this way and i won't accept them declining it. it's an easy-win lawsuit and if it went to class action they would buckle on day one due to the unclear wording in their rebate form. the more that submit the greater the changes they will fulfill the forms.

My recommendation is the stick with what you've got right now although I don't know why you would run the coax strait to your TV, you probably wouldn't see any quality difference and for ease of use, it would be easiest to stay on one input. and I suggest you fill out and mail off for the $200 gift card. Thanks for the feedback. I'm certainly not inclined to spring more $ every month if there's no improvement of PQ by going digital; I don't care about the additional 20 channels I don't even want to watch :D

I haven't read the rebate form in detail. Clearly I am not a NEW HD subscriber as I've had the box for at least a couple of years or more whenever they became available in the SF Bay Area). Nonetheless, I'm not averse to "upgrading" to the low-end digital package for a month in order to get the $200 spiff (nor am I averse to just sending it in to see if they'll honor my existing HD service). I don't recall Comcast ever using anything on the monthly bill to indicate a service was new or just enabled, anyway.

We've found w/the 5100 and the "old" Sony RP CRT-based HDTV that PQ on 2-99 is better when the cable goes straight to the TV tuner rather than piping through the 5100, so have only used the 5100 when viewing HD.

It appears this remains the case with the new TV that arrived today (Sammy 4674W connected to the 5100 via DVI). Straight unadulterated cable looks better on the TV tuner than it does coming through the box.

Curious if you've experienced this: I'm finding more success in "stretch modes" for fullscreen SD/4:3 by using 480p for the override rather than disabling it altogether. Although there are only 2 choices w/480p vs. 4 (I think) with override, the override setup won't allow me to get a fullscreen. Everything else is set for 720p and I must say the PQ on this set is STELLAR. An absolute world of difference to the CRT RP.

I may need to get a new remote, though...using an MX-500 which doesn't have discretes (nor the ability to download anything) and I'm finding source/input switching on the Sammy to be a bit more clumsy than the way Sony implements it.

I also agree cable looks better via the television tuner vs. what you get via the cable box. In my case for ntsc signals I am convinced it's mostly because of "pixel plus" line doubling technique and auto picture sizing which is not enabled nor available via the component or dvi inputs which the cable box usues.

I have HD from comcast, Motorola 6200 for about 2 days now. I consistently have distortion on Discovery Channel about once every 30 secs. The other HD channels appears to be OK. From reading previous posts, I displayed diagnostics from the 6200. I recorded about 5-6 5sec samples below. There appears to be a definite problem with Disc. Channel.

Questions: Is it worth calling Comcast? Is the problem my 6200 or the signal or something else? Does anybody observes problems with Disc. Channel in Sacramento area?

Thanks for any help.

Discovery:
=====
SNR: 34.1, 34, 34.4, 32, 33
AGC: 50, 50, 50, 50, 50
Uncorrected errors: 0, 0, 0, 0, 0
Corrected errors: 73, 0, 199, 1355, 1734
Visual observation: drop-out, distortion about once ever 30-secs

PBS
===
SNR: 34, 33, 34, 34, 34, 34
AGC: 49, 49, 49, 49, 49, 49
Uncorrected errors: 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0
Corrected errors: 0, 7, 0, 1, 0, 0
Visual Observation: No distortion observed.

INHD
====
SNR: 34, 35, 34, 35, 35, 35
AGC: 49, 49, 49, 49, 49, 49
Uncorr. Errors: 0, 0, 0, 0, 0
Correc. Errors: 0, 0, 0, 0, 0
Visual Observation: No distortion observed.

Originally posted by MaxH
I'm trying out the Motorola DCT-6412 PVR. As a ReplayTV owner, I'm finding that the HD content almost makes the lack of polish in the UI tolerable. But what really makes navigation tolerable is the fact that the Harmony database had a code for 30-second skip that I added to my Harmony H676. However, I'd really, really like to be able to jump forward or back or to a specific point in the show, the way I can with my ReplayTVs. Has anyone found a way to do that? As it is, getting to the 45 minute mark in an hour-long show when it starts at the beginning is painfully slow.

And I know, I should check RemoteCentral.com, and I will, but I was reading this thread and thinking about it, so I thought I'd ask.

Unfortunately, there is currently no way to skip to a precise portion of a recording on the 6412, other than starting at the beginning, picking up where you left off, or skipping ahead 30 seconds at a time. For more 6412 info, check out this very lengthy thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=464986).

One of the great things about Comcast is that you can always call them. 1-800-comcast. Service is free with that monthly rate. I always tell people to call, and get it on the record. Let them send a person with a meter to make sure the signals are good, and there are no prooblems with the house wire. Improper house wiring is the number one problem for Comcast.

Originally posted by pamploner
I have HD from comcast, Motorola 6200 for about 2 days now. I consistently have distortion on Discovery Channel about once every 30 secs. The other HD channels appears to be OK. From reading previous posts, I displayed diagnostics from the 6200. I recorded about 5-6 5sec samples below. There appears to be a definite problem with Disc. Channel.

Questions: Is it worth calling Comcast? Is the problem my 6200 or the signal or something else? Does anybody observes problems with Disc. Channel in Sacramento area?

Thanks for any help.

Discovery:
=====
SNR: 34.1, 34, 34.4, 32, 33
AGC: 50, 50, 50, 50, 50
Uncorrected errors: 0, 0, 0, 0, 0
Corrected errors: 73, 0, 199, 1355, 1734
Visual observation: drop-out, distortion about once ever 30-secs

PBS
===
SNR: 34, 33, 34, 34, 34, 34
AGC: 49, 49, 49, 49, 49, 49
Uncorrected errors: 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0
Corrected errors: 0, 7, 0, 1, 0, 0
Visual Observation: No distortion observed.

INHD
====
SNR: 34, 35, 34, 35, 35, 35
AGC: 49, 49, 49, 49, 49, 49
Uncorr. Errors: 0, 0, 0, 0, 0
Correc. Errors: 0, 0, 0, 0, 0
Visual Observation: No distortion observed.

Digital picture are better than analog. Cable is working on an all digital service. We take the signals at the source, by connecting fiber to the broadcast station, and then channel map them onto the customers with Digital boxes. This takes care of two things, give those people with analog just that, and improves the pictures for those who have digital boxes.

I would hope that you would not accept some of the slanted and off color responses from some of the members as truth. Some things left out might be the local channels you want if you have a dish. They compress their HD signals, they don't have ON DEMAND, (VOD) or HiSpeed Internet combo's. It's just a meeter of time.

Let me know if I can help with anything anytime.

Originally posted by kring
It's my opinion that digital cable stinks to put it strait forward. It's certainly [B]NOT worth the outrageous $65.00/mo without any movie channels that Comcast charges. and just to be clear, all the channels you recive now will be EXACTLY the same, it's only channels like HGTV and high nubmer channels that will be digital... all your locals will still be non-digital.

On the $200 givt card from Samsung.. .the way I read that form is that it's for the purchase of digital HDTV, and if the cable compay requires additional packages such as digital basic, then obviously you have to subscribe to that package, in the case with ComCast, you only need the basic to add on the digital HDTV service (which you have now). If you read item # 4 on the form it states

"4) A copy of your first month's cable bill showing activation of the applicable high-definition cable video service from a participating cable company between 10/17/04 and 2/15/05."

It doesn't say you need the standard definition digital package AND high-definition service? if you have a 5100 or 6200 box then you are receiving "Digital Cable service with HD"

I have a similar setup, 4674, Denon 2910, DirecTivo and the 6200 from ComCast. I sent in my rebate this way and i won't accept them declining it. it's an easy-win lawsuit and if it went to class action they would buckle on day one due to the unclear wording in their rebate form. the more that submit the greater the changes they will fulfill the forms.

My recommendation is the stick with what you've got right now although I don't know why you would run the coax strait to your TV, you probably wouldn't see any quality difference and for ease of use, it would be easiest to stay on one input. and I suggest you fill out and mail off for the $200 gift card.

Originally posted by poohbair
Here's one I think is interesting. I'm connected to the internet via a wireless-G connection to a router which is then connected to a cable modem. What's interesting is whenever I connect and use the DCT6200 my internent crawls to a near stop. Anyone else experiencing interference between their cable boxes and cable modems?

I have not seen or heard of any such issue. Since they do not share bandwidth of any kind, it doesn't seem possible. I have heard that 2 gig phones have been causing interference to Wireless routers, but that's it so far.

I have 3 boxes a 5100, 6200 and 6412 and 2 Wireless NetGear Routers fed from a Motorola SurfBoard SB4101 cable modem. I have never had cross talk.

Originally posted by Almighty1
Got a question, has anyone here received a 6412 box that actually has a RF Cable out since with the component video and Analog audio going to my Plasma display, there isn't really another way to hook up my VCR as the VCR has the LD going to the Composite Video/Audio on the SVHS VCR.

Motorola will not have a RF output on the 6412 until after April 2005, if they do decide to addit on. Radio Shack makes a AV to RF modulator for cheap, try it.

Originally posted by hibricc
Unfortunately, there is currently no way to skip to a precise portion of a recording on the 6412, other than starting at the beginning, picking up where you left off, or skipping ahead 30 seconds at a time. For more 6412 info, check out this very lengthy thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=464986).

Excellent, thanks hibricc.

Sorry Danny - but we just verified it again. and disconnected the 6200. The situation is the landlord downstairs has the cable modem connected to a wireless-g router. I connect to the internet via a wireless-g receiving card. We also share a basic cable connection. It is not officially digital cable service. I have been using the 6200 for 3 local network HD channels. When the 6200 is connected to the cable the internet for me crawls like mud. However the moment I disconnect it, it frees up and flys along. Now, I'm sure if I had my own digital cable service I would have no problems. right?

Also wife and I agree, analog cable PQ via the 6200 connected to our Philips plasma 42FD9954 with component cables suffers when compared to connecting the cable directly to the Philips receiving box. It considers the YPbPr connection to be digital and will offer no electronic enhancement to the signal. However when connected directly, the television offers a host of enhancements including Pixel Plus, auto picture sizing, and more. I would connect the 6200 via DVI but unfortuantely my plasma does not support HDCP. (can I turn off the 6200's HDCP?) So, for now I am reverting back to enjoying HD programs via OTA antenna using HTPC ATSC receiver which connects to the plasma using DVI just fine. Plus I am viewing the local station's digital sub-channels which I could not via the 6200.

Originally posted by Dannytheman
I have not seen or heard of any such issue. Since they do not share bandwidth of any kind, it doesn't seem possible. I have heard that 2 gig phones have been causing interference to Wireless routers, but that's it so far.

Danny, I post this with some trepedition since you clearly are in the know about cable. But with regards to the 6200 and a cable modem sharing bandwidth, are you sure? Doesn't the 6200 have it's own cable modem so that it can connect to the back end and get guide information, purchase shows, etc? I think I saw evidence to that effect in the menus.

Now granted, these are two separate cable modems and thus are not sharing the allocated bandwidth, but if the 6200 were faulty in some way, it might grab ALL of the bandwidth and even impact other customers ... no?

I could be all wet ... I'm certainly no expert on how cable modems and cable based TCP/IP works.

-Kevin

Originally posted by poohbair
Here's one I think is interesting. I'm connected to the internet via a wireless-G connection to a router which is then connected to a cable modem. What's interesting is whenever I connect and use the DCT6200 my internent crawls to a near stop. Anyone else experiencing interference between their cable boxes and cable modems?

I have two DCT6200's and notice no slowdown even when both are on. It is possible you have a bad cable going to your cable modem.

read my situation in my last post above.

A wireless router should not be impacted by the DCT 6200 any more the a wired router. The DCT6200 is a FFC approved device and should not put out any interference that would slow down the router. That being said check your cable connections and connectors on the cable since they have caused me problems. Also theory is fine but if you still have problems try a different DCT6200 and possibly a different router.

I'm not saying the router is causing problems. Cabling could be a factor since he has the cable modem in the home below. I have the apartment above. He has the cable split all over the house. Again I suspect I would have better success if I had my own direct cable connection.

Originally posted by poohbair
Sorry Danny - but we just verified it again. and disconnected the 6200. The situation is the landlord downstairs has the cable modem connected to a wireless-g router. I connect to the internet via a wireless-g receiving card. We also share a basic cable connection. It is not officially digital cable service. I have been using the 6200 for 3 local network HD channels. When the 6200 is connected to the cable the internet for me crawls like mud. However the moment I disconnect it, it frees up and flys along. Now, I'm sure if I had my own digital cable service I would have no problems. right?


couple questions:

1) is it just the wireless network that slows to a crawl, or all internet access? (i.e. is your landlord's wired access slow when you have the 6200 connected?)

2) does this only happen with a 6200 connected or any device connected to your cable? (by any device i mean a tv, vcr, or other cable box)

- a fellow w. michigander

Only the 6200. don't know about landlord's access he is not computer literate.

Originally posted by poohbair
Only the 6200. don't know about landlord's access he is not computer literate.

Looking at this from a computer side. Bandwidth is limited both in up and down speeds. Both up & Down communication pass through the same cap filter and line so what your experincing could be 2 things. 1.) you've hit max bandwidth for that line (either up or down) or 2.) your router is having wireless issues, almost all correctable.

Bandwidth explanation: If you're uploading bandwidth is 1.5MbpsDown/256kbpsUp, and you are sending information @ 256Kbps up then you are maxing the filters abilities and what happens is your downloads will come to a screaching halt, so bad where if you were getting 1.5Mbps download, when you hit the max upload speed of 256kbps you download cold drop as low as 50Kbps (96% drop). File sharing programs (i.e. file sharing programs like Kazzaa or **********, etc...) ALWAYS max out your upload connection causing this issue. So you need to do a few things to find out if this is the issue:

I'll also note that it's my understanding that Data & TV signals operate at different frequencies, the TV signal should not interfere with the Data so in the case of your box with built in cable modem, having a bad modem inside the cable box would wreak havoc on the data singnal range. so your box could very well be the problem if the following does not fix it.

possible solutions steps:
1.) Checking with your landlord and find out if he's using any file sharing programs. if so, have him close them down and see if anytyhing gets better.

2.) what happens if he turns off his computer? does everything still come to a crawl?

3.) If yes, then look in the wireless routers DHCP or STATUS information and make sure you don't have someone else (a stealing neighbor) accessing your router and maxing your connection. make sure you have a secure connection by adding a WEP key.

4.) Upgrade your routers firmware to the latest. OR if you have a D-Link 624 router, you should DOWNGRADE your firmware as their latest is plagued with issues causing EXACTLY what your are experiencing.

5.) Look in the routers wireless configuration and you may want to disable turbo, or Wireless-G, or if your running Super-G only mode, disable it, try turning the speed down a bit.

6.) if you are using filesharing then depending on the program, look in it's settings for upload restrictions and lock the program @ 10kb upload. if the program doesn't have options to limit upload speed, then I suggest looking into a software app called Net Limiter 1.3, which will allow you to control every running programs up and download speeds.

7.) If it's still not fixed, then just connect them both up and leave it that way for a few hours... maybe the box just needs information and if you let it run it might just finish in a few hours.

Hope some of this helps, if none of it does, I'd say you have a bad cable box.

Originally posted by Dannytheman
Motorola will not have a RF output on the 6412 until after April 2005, if they do decide to addit on. Radio Shack makes a AV to RF modulator for cheap, try it.

Already did and it's not cheap at $50 since only the $50 kit has the RF Demodulator that outputs in stereo audio. The other ones are all mono only.

Why would Motorola make a converter that would output RF ch. 2/3/4? There is already video, S-Video, component and DVI, not to mention USB and 1394. I for one, wouldn't want to take a step backwards to an RF output. If ou are looking for a DVR with an RF out, there is Tivo, replay, etc.

Originally posted by khauser
Danny, I post this with some trepedition since you clearly are in the know about cable. But with regards to the 6200 and a cable modem sharing bandwidth, are you sure? Doesn't the 6200 have it's own cable modem so that it can connect to the back end and get guide information, purchase shows, etc? I think I saw evidence to that effect in the menus.

Now granted, these are two separate cable modems and thus are not sharing the allocated bandwidth, but if the 6200 were faulty in some way, it might grab ALL of the bandwidth and even impact other customers ... no?
-Kevin

Upstream used by a cable box (6200) for VOD, etc is entirely separate from the data channels used by cable modems. While the 6200 has cable-modem chips in it, they are not enabled and it is not transmitting DOCSIS upstream (or receiving it downstream for that matter).

If internet access slows to a crawl when you connect the 6200, the reason is noise and/or signal strength. How many splitters is the cable modem behind? Typically, you want the cable modem upstream of all the splitters if possible:

cable -> 1 to 2 splitter -> cable modem
->1 to N splitter that feeds the rest of the house OR
cable (not "video") amp + splitter feeding the house

If you are splitting only to 2 or three drops and have good signal strength you can just run the cable modem off the main splitter.

Don't forget, splitters are multiplicative! A 1 to 2 feeding a 1 to 2 is somewhat worse than a 1 to 4 would be (say 8-10db drop instead of say 7-8db drop - and remember that a feed with a 7db drop has twice the signal of one with a 10db drop!) And these same drops apply on the upstream side (your cable modem sending to the network). A 1 to 4 feeding a 1 to 4 is the equivalent (roughly) of a 1 to 20 (i.e. not good). Try to use the minimum possible, and try to "level" the amount of splits so you don't end up with some with good signal and some with really sucky signal (except maybe as above with the cable modem). Also: use good quality splitters and cable (RG6 if possible for longer runs, not RG59). Put terminators on unused splitter ports (which should be minimal). Avoid tight bends/crimping of the coax, and use quality connectors.

If you can't solve it yourself, call the cable co and say "I have trouble with my cable modem since I connected my DCT6200 - come out and fix it".

can't do that. The landlord is letting me "borrow" his cable connection. no charge.

Originally posted by spacejamz
someone posted a separate thread about this issue, but i figured I would post it here as well since it applies to the Comcast HD box...

after they rolled out the INDEMAND service in my area (Lewisvilee, TX which is just north of Dallas), my cable box was not outputting the 5.1 sound...I was just getting pro logic on my receiver.

However, if I was on channel that should have had 5.1, and I hit the INDEMAND button (which to took me to the INDEMAND menu) and then hit the LAST button to exit, the 5.1 sound turned on.

If I change the channel to a non 5.1 channel and then back to a 5.1 channel, sometimes it goes out again and I have to repeat the process...

Both of my Comcast HD boxes are doing this...

it is this happening to anyone else?

I call Comcast this morning and they said they would call me back, but I am not holding my breath...will call them later this afternoon...

BTW..they are both 6200 boxes...

I just got today a 6200 with Cox and have yet to see any 5 to 1 sound any any channels, i have a yammi reciever which detects dvd sources reliably, i have no INDEMAND button just a small PP (pay per veiw)?
Any idea's?.....btw i have it hooked up using the optical out to reciever.

Originally posted by longkid
Im new to this forum and have been searching quite a bit for the answer to my problem but so far to no avail. My 6200 firmware was upgraded this week to allow me to use the DVI output. A problem has come up while using the DVI output that I just cant understand. During viewing of SD channels there is no problem but when I view HD channels I notice a lot of what I can only explain as blue static or snow throughout the entire picture as well as light but noticable blue lines running the width of my picture. Has anyone come across this problem? I think it may be the cable (computer DVI cable) or possibly the DVI port thats the problem since while using component cables I dont have this problem. Thanks for any input.

Hey Longkid,

I have a Dell W4200HD Plasma that i just received this week. Today i received a Motorola 6200 and i am having the same exact problem with my DVI. I've already sent an e-mail to motorola (wonder if i'll ever get a response) and i'm about to call Adelphia about it. When i set the 6200 to 720p on DVI it almost looks better than 1080i on component. So i really want to see what 1080i on DVI looks like! Plus i've runout of component inputs with my DVD player and Replay TV so i really need the cable box to use DVI.

Sounds like the exact behavior of a non-HDCP display. AFAIK, only the newer Dell LCD-TVs support HDCP. I don't think any of their "computer monitors" do.

Sorry, dude - Comcast doesn't trust your monitor.

According to the Dell Website my Plasma is HDCP...

Audio/Video Input Signal (back)
Bullet Composite (2); S-Video (2); Component (2); TV In/Coax(1); Audio (RCA L+R) (7); DVI-HDCP (1, shared with PC); HDMI (1)

Ohh and to top it all off, freakin HD is heavily compressed..... pretty dissapointing. There should be a law stating that HD should NOT be compressed as its pretty much useless without full clarity.

How can you tell if it's "compressed" or not? explain.

Originally posted by poohbair
How can you tell if it's "compressed" or not? explain.

I can see compression artifacts and banding in some of the gradients. Typical problems with compressed signals.

Originally posted by longkid
During viewing of SD channels there is no problem but when I view HD channels I notice a lot of what I can only explain as blue static or snow throughout the entire picture as well as light but noticable blue lines running the width of my picture. Has anyone come across this problem?

Hey Longkid,

Does it look something like this?


http://img95.exs.cx/img95/4254/20050203dellplasma00057dl.jpg

yuck. so that's it. I don't have that. suggestion: either don't use flash or shoot at an angle to minimize reflections.

Originally posted by poohbair
yuck. so that's it. I don't have that. suggestion: either don't use flash or shoot at an angle to minimize reflections.

I know, i actually took two other shots at the same time.....

http://img95.exs.cx/img95/6127/20050203dellplasma00040bo.jpg

http://img95.exs.cx/img95/9987/20050203dellplasma00030hj.jpg

Is that how your screen really looks?.............

Originally posted by Thameth
I can see compression artifacts and banding in some of the gradients. Typical problems with compressed signals. On what channel(s) were you noticing the compression artifacts? All of them? I don't know about Alelphia, but AFAIK most cable co's are just passing thru the HD signals they recieve from whatever source "as-is", bit-for-bit. No additional compression. Some sources will be better than others. HBO-HD, for example seems to use more compression (less bandwidth) - but all HD sources should look pretty darn good.

Note you could be seeing a phenomon called "false contouring" that plasmas are particularly sensitive to. It results in exaggerated color banding, particularly in same-color gradations like blue sky or water. Do an AVS forum search for more discussion of this topic.

191 pages of stuff is a lot to go through and I may have missed it, but I have a problem with my 6200 and my Vizio Plasma HDTV. The Vizio is HDCP (I think it's called that) compliant. I hook up my 6200 to the DVI input on the back of the TV. Everything is fine for a while, but every now and then, the screen will turn to all static. Not just a little that has been mentioned by some, but the whole screen goes to white static. You can't see any picture through it. The sound I can still hear just fine through my stereo (I have sound from STB hooked up to my stereo through optical cable). If I turn off STB and back on, the static is gone and TV watching is just fine again. This happens about every 3 hours. If I hook STB and TV up through component inputs everything is perfect (static issue has never happened through components).

Is this a problem with this STB? Solutions?

HDCP compliance is a four letter word. Occasionally the STB will loose the handshake with the TV and the screen will go to snow. I had this problem with a Toshiba 30" HDTV. I also have a Samsung 61" DLP so I had two Motorola 6200s. I switched the boxes and it minimized the problem on the Toshiba. I never had a problem with the Samsung. Perhaps a future firmware update to the STB will eliminate the problem, but for now ask for a different STB and it may resolve the problem.

Originally posted by orangedawg
191 pages of stuff is a lot to go through and I may have missed it, but I have a problem with my 6200 and my Vizio Plasma HDTV. The Vizio is HDCP (I think it's called that) compliant. I hook up my 6200 to the DVI input on the back of the TV. Everything is fine for a while, but every now and then, the screen will turn to all static. Not just a little that has been mentioned by some, but the whole screen goes to white static. You can't see any picture through it. The sound I can still hear just fine through my stereo (I have sound from STB hooked up to my stereo through optical cable). If I turn off STB and back on, the static is gone and TV watching is just fine again. This happens about every 3 hours. If I hook STB and TV up through component inputs everything is perfect (static issue has never happened through components).

Is this a problem with this STB? Solutions? The static occurs when there's no HDCP handshake with the display. It never occurs over component, because that's analog, not digital like DVI. Only digital outputs have this kind of copy protection.

What city are you in? Is this Comcast? What version of 6200 firmware do you have? We had problems like this with all Comcast 6200s here in Seattle until they issued a firmware update last fall. Every time you switched the TV input away from DVI the 6200 would fail the HDCP handshake. Sorry, don't remember the specific firmware version that fixed it.

Hi,

I'm new to the forum, and to HDTV. I just received a Sony 46" RPTV (KP-46WT520), and have the Moto DCT6200 box (Comcast - MA). My tv is HDMI ready, so I am using a DVI/HDMI cable to connect the STB to the TV, with RCA audio between them (hoping to get a receiver soon to use all optical audio).

I have played with some settings, but really don't know what the best settings should be for both the TV and the STB. I believe my STB is currently set to 16:9 TV type, 1080i on the DVI/component signal, and 480p on the 4:3 override.

As is, HD signals look awesome, digital cable pretty good, but local channels look like crap, which I suspect has something to do with the 4:3 override.

Any recommendations would be helpful.

Thanks!

Originally posted by bren924
Hi,

I'm new to the forum, and to HDTV. I just received a Sony 46" RPTV (KP-46WT520), and have the Moto DCT6200 box (Comcast - MA). My tv is HDMI ready, so I am using a DVI/HDMI cable to connect the STB to the TV, with RCA audio between them (hoping to get a receiver soon to use all optical audio).

I have played with some settings, but really don't know what the best settings should be for both the TV and the STB. I believe my STB is currently set to 16:9 TV type, 1080i on the DVI/component signal, and 480p on the 4:3 override.

As is, HD signals look awesome, digital cable pretty good, but local channels look like crap, which I suspect has something to do with the 4:3 override.

Any recommendations would be helpful.

Thanks! A couple things to try:

1) try setting the 4:3 override to 480i. On many TVs a progressive signal will bypass the TV's internal scaler (not sure about yours). So send it an interlaced signal instead.

2) try plugging the cable signal directly into the TV's antenna input; see if the analog channels look any better that way. If not, you probably have a weak cable signal due to too many splitters or long cable runs. Fix with a CATV signal amplifier (make sure it's a bi-directional amp).

Audio problem?

Comcast - NJ
I use optical cable to connect Comcast 6412 STB and receiver. But I don't think I get 5.1 sound from 5.1 HD programs now (include 5.1 HD movie on HBOHD). When I display the sound source from receiver, it shows 'PCM fs 48 MHZ'. It's just stereo, isn't?

The receiver is just fine, because the 5.1 sound from DVD player is good, and the sound source is displayed 'correctly'.

Do I have to do some config on HD STB?

Thanks a lot!

nywst -

try turning the box off then on again. this usually gets the 5.1 audio back.

this is an ongoing (an annoying) issue with the 6412's. they seem to lose 5.1 way too often.

Just bought a new Pioneer Plasma - Pro920 and want to get the connections set up for better picture.

I have a Motorola 6200 STB with 7.15 firmware. STB is configured for 16:9 / 1080i / and 4:3 override is set to 480i. Is having the 4:3 override set to 480i the best? HD is very clear - SD is ok to awful (worse in lower channels).

Currently taking component feed from the 6200 to the Plasma receiver - would like to use a DVI (STB) / HDMI (Plasm) feed - but last time Comcast was out they told me that while DVI was on the box - it was not configured?? I see lots of posts here indicating others are using DVI - is my Comcast guy misinformed? Do others have a newer firmware? Hate to run out and buy a cable to learn the STB will not work with it.

Any feedback would be appreciated.

I assume you mean component (red, green, blue -3 cable) rather than the simple composite (yellow -1 cable).

This an ongoing issue with comcast 6200. My latest understanding is if your display is HDCP compatible it should work. You may need a DVI/HDMI adapter. My Philips panel is not HDCP compatible so I am relegated to using component connections. I currently know of no cable or satellite box that does not now require a HDCP compatible display for their DVI connection.

Thanks - your are correct - component. Corrected prior post - I assume my new display is compliant and will find a cable.

Thanks

Originally posted by Bud-man
Is that how your screen really looks?.............

Yes it DID look like that. I finally found out in the Dell thread that there was a DVI adjustment setting for my TV and now it looks great.

Sorry for the alarm, but i think this is what the other person was experiencing.

Originally posted by jimre
On what channel(s) were you noticing the compression artifacts? All of them? I don't know about Alelphia, but AFAIK most cable co's are just passing thru the HD signals they recieve from whatever source "as-is", bit-for-bit. No additional compression. Some sources will be better than others. HBO-HD, for example seems to use more compression (less bandwidth) - but all HD sources should look pretty darn good.

Note you could be seeing a phenomon called "false contouring" that plasmas are particularly sensitive to. It results in exaggerated color banding, particularly in same-color gradations like blue sky or water. Do an AVS forum search for more discussion of this topic.

All my HD channels i can pretty much see artifacts. Hmmm the false contouring might be happening in the gradients. But i still see other types of compression in other area's.

I'll look more into it, thanx.

Anybody with a Moto 6200 also using a ReplayTV?? Will the Moto accept Serial control?? Or do you HAVE to use the IR Blaster? If so, how do you adjust the IR Blaster to control the 6200.

Thanx!

Originally posted by oleus
nywst -

try turning the box off then on again. this usually gets the 5.1 audio back.

this is an ongoing (an annoying) issue with the 6412's. they seem to lose 5.1 way too often.

I tried to restart the HDSTB many times, still no luck. Actually I NEVER received 5.1 sound before.

I think I might have to ask Comcast replace.
Thanks.

I posted last week about a DVI connection issue with my 6200 and my Vizio plasma HDTV. My issue was that I'd watch TV for a while and all would be good, and then all of a sudden it would all go to static and not come back unless I turned it off and back on. This happened about every three hours of viewing Someone noted that it was probably losing it's "handshake".

Anyway, I called Charter Cable adn they brought out a new 6200 STB. And lo and behold I haven't had the issue since the cable guy replaced the box on Friday!!! :) So I think it's the STB and not the TV. Just an FYI for those with a similar issue.

Now if I could just get ABC, Fox, etc. in HD. Charter does not provide HD in those channels in my area (central Washington State). So, I pay $10 for 3 HD channels (HDNet, HDDiscovery, and ESPN HD). What a rip off!!!! Oh, those channels aren't also OTA in my area either!!!

Originally posted by Thameth
Anybody with a Moto 6200 also using a ReplayTV?? Will the Moto accept Serial control?? Or do you HAVE to use the IR Blaster? If so, how do you adjust the IR Blaster to control the 6200.

Thanx! I have an SA Tivo but in any case, you have to use the IR blaster...no serial control. The 22xx DCT boxes have serial control but no S-Video port. It is the reverse with the 6200 box, S-Video but no serial port. I gave up and ran the coax direct into my SA Tivo. I only get 2-99 and really dont miss anything on the digital channels but then I have a 6412 DVR too.

I have the Comcast 6200 STB, and I'm trying to use the DVI input on my Panny ED set. I cannot get a signal to go through. I changed DVI cables to a dual link cable, and it still has not worked. I called comcast, and they were no help, although they did set up a no cost visit by a tech. They guy also told me that an ED set could not use the DVI input - is this correct?

Any help here would be appreciated.

Your problem may be that your Panny is not HDCP compliant - this is normally the issue. Check your owners manual and see if it says one way or the other.

I found some online reports, and my set IS HDCP compliant. so that is not the issue. Any other ideas?

If it's an ED set, have you tried setting the comcast box to 480P output? What resolution are you using?

I believe Dave has given you the correct answer. I use the DVI output to my Panny ED (a different model though). If it is NOT set to one of the 480 models, or more accurately if it is set to 1080i, the signal is not acceptable to the monitor. And of course setting it to 480I kinda defeats the purpose.

Try setting it to 480p.

I have a newbie question. My TV is 30" 16.9 Akai CFT 3090. I have the Motorola 6200 STB setup as 16.9 / 480i / 4.3 override off.

On HD channels I still get the top/bottom bars no matter what resolution I use 480i...480p...720...etc. Is this normal? My DVD player outputs the 16.9 correctly (fills the screen unless , of course it's a 1:85 widescreen). Am I missing something in my setup?

Thanks for any help.

Originally posted by bandbjt
I have a newbie question. My TV is 30" 16.9 Akai CFT 3090. I have the Motorola 6200 STB setup as 16.9 / 480i / 4.3 override off.

On HD channels I still get the top/bottom bars no matter what resolution I use 480i...480p...720...etc. Is this normal? My DVD player outputs the 16.9 correctly (fills the screen unless , of course it's a 1:85 widescreen). Am I missing something in my setup?

Thanks for any help. Try changing 480i to 480p.

Originally posted by bart745
Try changing 480i to 480p.

No difference.

Originally posted by bandbjt
I have a newbie question. My TV is 30" 16.9 Akai CFT 3090. I have the Motorola 6200 STB setup as 16.9 / 480i / 4.3 override off.

On HD channels I still get the top/bottom bars no matter what resolution I use 480i...480p...720...etc. Is this normal? My DVD player outputs the 16.9 correctly (fills the screen unless , of course it's a 1:85 widescreen). Am I missing something in my setup?

Thanks for any help. I assume that you are using Component Video or DVI connections (Composite Video, S-Video, and RF Out cannot pass anything other than 4:3 480i regardless of the selected output resolution)...

I have the comcast DVR box and am having a problem deleting one of the recorded shows.

Everytime I try to delete it I get a message of "Cannot delete program that is in use (or something to that effect)."

The wierd part is that the show is 60 mins long, but when you try to access it, it shows 19 mins recorded and won't play the show. I know that it did record the full 60 mins because I had previously watched it after it was recorded.

I just cannot get it to delete now.

Anyone else ever this problem?

Originally posted by deessel
I have the comcast DVR box and am having a problem deleting one of the recorded shows.

Everytime I try to delete it I get a message of "Cannot delete program that is in use (or something to that effect)."

The wierd part is that the show is 60 mins long, but when you try to access it, it shows 19 mins recorded and won't play the show. I know that it did record the full 60 mins because I had previously watched it after it was recorded.

I just cannot get it to delete now.

Anyone else ever this problem? Have you tried cycling the power?

hello. I just got comcast digital today and it came with the moto 5100 cable box I believe. Right now I have it connected via DVI from the box to my plasma. I have a 42PA25U panasonic plasma. How do I go into setup of the moto 5100 hd box and change it to 480i or 480p?? how do I do that, if someone can please explain it to me, I would appreciate it. I would like to see non-hd channel full screen instead of the ****** 4:3 screen. Thanks.

Originally posted by crazyplasma
How do I go into setup of the moto 5100 hd box and change it to 480i or 480p?? how do I do that, if someone can please explain it to me,

http://cjhengineering.com/DCTHDFAQ.htm

thank you so much. :)

My initial set-up was cable line-2 way splitter-cable box (Moto 6412) and direct into back of tv. This worked great.

I recently decided to add my cable modem into the line by doing the following:
cable line-2 way splitter- 1 line to cable modem/1line to 2 way splitter- 1 line to tv /1 line into Moto 6412.

By doing this my internet is working fine and the cable tv works as well. However, it seems that the cable box has powered itself off twice in the last 2 hours and is making a "beeping" noise.

Anyone have any idea of what I can do to remedy this? Do I need to add in a CATV signal amp? If so, where in the line does it go?

I originally made a post to AVS Forum > Display Devices > Rear Projection Units, but received mixed answers. One of the replies pointed me to this group, so here is my story.

I recently got a Samsung HLP5063W and was setup with HDTV through Comcast with a Motorola 6200 cable box. I am using the component video connection.

By default, the 6200 was set to 1080i. I figured since my TV displays 720p, that setting my cable box to 720p would be a good idea. (one less conversion) With the 6200 at 720p, the picture on my TV went black and every few seconds the picture would flash on the screen, only to go black again.

The replies to my original post were mixed...

1.) Replace the Component cables with DVI.
2.) There is a DVI spec mismatch between Motorola and Samsung, use HDMI. (not sure how this effects my component connection)

If anyone can give more insight into this, it would be greatly appreciated.

Also, I am not sure if this question is appropriate for this group, but does anyone know how many format conversions (1080i, 720p) the HD signal goes through between CBS, ABC, etc and my TV? Or more simply put, does Comcast reformat the signal? Just wondering if it makes a difference to try setting the cable box to 1080i for CBS and 720p for ABC. (assuming I can figure out my problem above.)

Thanks.

Originally posted by jimbo75
I originally made a post to AVS Forum > Display Devices > Rear Projection Units, but received mixed answers. One of the replies pointed me to this group, so here is my story.

I recently got a Samsung HLP5063W and was setup with HDTV through Comcast with a Motorola 6200 cable box. I am using the component video connection.

By default, the 6200 was set to 1080i. I figured since my TV displays 720p, that setting my cable box to 720p would be a good idea. (one less conversion) With the 6200 at 720p, the picture on my TV went black and every few seconds the picture would flash on the screen, only to go black again.

The replies to my original post were mixed...

1.) Replace the Component cables with DVI.
2.) There is a DVI spec mismatch between Motorola and Samsung, use HDMI. (not sure how this effects my component connection)

If anyone can give more insight into this, it would be greatly appreciated.

Also, I am not sure if this question is appropriate for this group, but does anyone know how many format conversions (1080i, 720p) the HD signal goes through between CBS, ABC, etc and my TV? Or more simply put, does Comcast reformat the signal? Just wondering if it makes a difference to try setting the cable box to 1080i for CBS and 720p for ABC. (assuming I can figure out my problem above.)

Thanks.

Comcast uses 1080I for output from the 6412 / 6208 / 6200 STB

Fox & ABC use 720p, and Comcast converts it to 1080I at the head end.

All Comcast HD is in 1080I going to your STB.

Originally posted by deessel
My initial set-up was cable line-2 way splitter-cable box (Moto 6412) and direct into back of tv. This worked great.

I recently decided to add my cable modem into the line by doing the following:
cable line-2 way splitter- 1 line to cable modem/1line to 2 way splitter- 1 line to tv /1 line into Moto 6412.

By doing this my internet is working fine and the cable tv works as well. However, it seems that the cable box has powered itself off twice in the last 2 hours and is making a "beeping" noise.

Anyone have any idea of what I can do to remedy this? Do I need to add in a CATV signal amp? If so, where in the line does it go?

make sure you are using a High Quality bi-directional splitter that covers 5 - 2000 mhz.

6200/6208/6412 STB all require a good signal strength, and require a return path to talk to the head end. spitters will reduce the signal strength, same as cheap coax and connectors.

The motorola Amp that works with these STB, can be purchased on the internet. You should place the amp where the cable line enters your house.

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000066E6Y/002-5440959-4030448?v=glance

Originally posted by scanpa
Fox & ABC use 720p, and Comcast converts it to 1080I at the head end.

All Comcast HD is in 1080I going to your STB.
That's news to me. Do you know where it might be documented? :(

I'm aware that Comcast has a problem outputting 720p from their STB component port, but this is the first I've heard about 720p being changed to 1080i at the head end.

There are a lot of people who believe that Comcast passes 720p unchanged from ABC, Fox, and ESPN through their STB's via the DVI port.

I realize now that I've never seen anything official on this topic. :rolleyes:

Originally posted by htwaits
That's news to me. Do you know where it might be documented? :(

I'm aware that Comcast has a problem outputting 720p from their STB component port, but this is the first I've heard about 720p being changed to 1080i at the head end.

There are a lot of people who believe that Comcast passes 720p unchanged from ABC, Fox, and ESPN through their STB's via the DVI port.

I realize now that I've never seen anything official on this topic. :rolleyes:

Not sure if it is documented anywhere. However I used to work for Suburban / comcast cable and still talk with my former boss, and other techs and headend mgrs.

At least in my area that I currently live, all comcast HD is in 1080i from the headend!

With some tv/monitors using HDMI / DVI / firewire connections, you have to turn the tv and the cable box on in a special order. So the devices will talk to each other correctly.

but if possible, always use 1080i as the output from the 6412 STB, that way you have no conversion problems.

For more help, you can check out the 6412 w/ Iguide topic in the HDTV-recorders and players board here at avs.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=464986

Originally posted by scanpa
For more help, you can check out the 6412 w/ Iguide topic in the HDTV-recorders and players board here at avs.
I'm using the 6200 STB and haven't had any trouble with it set to output 720p through it's DVI port. If what you say is true of the San Francisco Bay Area then I'm causing the STB to convert ABC, Fox, and ESPN to 720p from 1080i when I thought that I was facilitating the original 720p getting to my native 720p TV without any conversions. Not a happy thought.

How can I find out what our local Comcast "head" is up to? In my experience Comcast customer support is not a reliable source for this kind of information.

Did comcast take over a previous cable provider in that area? or is it a totaly new cable provider setup?

If it was a previous cable system, that comcast took over, then the headend equipment could be different then the normal Comcast setup.

You would need to contact the head end mgr. or techs for this info.

I do not have a local number for that area.

Originally posted by scanpa
Did comcast take over a previous cable provider in that area? or is it a totaly new cable provider setup?


Comcast has done both in this area. I thinks it's to the point where Comcast is the only provider of any size at all. Our particular small area was a take over of a take over, but Comcast has been the biggest operator in this region for a long time.

Thanks for the information.

after calling my ex boss in Philly pa.

He says all Cable providers / satellite providers will only use 1 broadcasting format from the head end, however they can choose between 1080i or 720p. He also says almost all Comcast Locations use 1080i.

All hd shows are converted / down converted before the signal goes out the head end in the format used in that area.

Hope this helps.

You would need to use a OTA HD receiver to get the native HD format for ABC/ FOX 720p in most cable areas covered by Comcast!

Originally posted by scanpa
All hd shows are converted / downconverted before the signal goes out the headend in the format used in that area.
I guess I'm still not clear. :rolleyes:

The path traveled by HD shows seems to have levels I'm not aware off. My "assumption" has been that national HD material goes from ABC, Fox, and ESPN (and the 1080i CBS, NBC, and PBS) to local affiliates and then, on a contractual basis, to a local Comcast facility? It sounds like my assumption is not correct. A first! ;)

Would there be more than one "head" in an area like the San Francisco Bay Area. Would I have to find the specific "head" servicing the STB's in Palo Alto rather than one "head" that services the STB's in the whole Bay Area?

Originally posted by htwaits
I guess I'm still not clear. :rolleyes:

The path traveled by HD shows seems to have levels I'm not aware off. My "assumption" has been that national HD material goes from ABC, Fox, and ESPN (and the 1080i CBS, NBC, and PBS) to local affiliates and then, on a contractual basis, to a local Comcast facility? It sounds like my assumption is not correct. A first! ;)


Cable providers do have to have agreements in place with the local networks to carry both SD / HD local ch. The local cable headend also has to be able to pick up both the SD / HD signal OTA to carry it on the cable system.



Would there be more than one "head" in an area like the San Francisco Bay Area. Would I have to find the specific "head" servicing the STB's in Palo Alto rather than one "head" that services the STB's in the whole Bay Area? [/B]

Yes, there could be several head ends in your area. In my area, comcast has 3 local outlets (head ends)

Comcast - Harrisburg
Comcast - Hershey
Comcast - Lebanon

Originally posted by scanpa
Yes, there could be several head ends in your area. In my area, comcast has 3 local outlets (head ends)
Thanks. It's been an education.

It also may explain why some people maintain that their native 720p TV sets look better if they configure their STB to output 1080i.

My humble opinion is that we would have been better off if a TV dictator had required all HD source providers to adhere to one un-american standard. :)

720p is best for sports events or anything else with fast moving objects.

I thought that a cable operator must transmit OTA channels as broadcast. Therefore they should not be doing any alteration or conversion of the broadcast signal. I guess this could be checked if someone had a cable card or just a digital cable tuner (since OTA is not supposed to be scrambled) and was able to access the information of the signal received.

This should resolve the Comcast question about the transmission in the native resolution. (I just got this email from the head of the Comcast Montgomery, MD engineering department.)
--------------------------------------------------------------
Paul,

Good to hear from you.

Yes, we send them in their native resolution, and the box does the conversion if necessary. The 6200 (nor any of our HD boxes) will not pass native resolution through unless the output happens to be set the same as the source. We are working with Motorola to allow some flexibility to have the DCT pass the native resolution, but that may take some time to implement.

Kevin

-----Original Message-----

Does Comcast transmit the HDTV signal in its native resolution?
(Are 720p signals transmitted to the cable box at the 720p resolution?)

I have a 720p set and I want to verify this because I have my DCT6200
box set up for 720p output.
If this is not the case it would be better for me to set the box to
1080i and let the tv do the conversion.

Thanks,

Paul

I guess once a question is asked, it brings up another question so here is mine on PaulGo's post.

So is Kevin saying all of the following:

1. COMCAST sends exactly what it get. If someone broadcasts in 720p, that's what COMCAST will put on the wire. If someone broadcasts 1080i, that's what COMCAST will put on the wire.

2. If the output from the MOT box is not set to the same as the native input, then the box will convert it to whatever the output is set to.

3. COMCAST is working with MOT to allow the box to ALWAYS send native signals and we would then not have to switch output based upon the channel that we are watching.


This is my interpretation and any or all of it could be wrong. I just want to know what the deal is. Feel free to address any of my 3 points individually.

Thanks!

Nils

Originally posted by LaVike
Feel free to address any of my 3 points individually.

If I understood scanpa's information, what Comcast does could be different in different areas. Based on lack of information about what's in the wire coming to my house, I'm leaving the 6200 set to 720p for now. :rolleyes:

LaVike - my interpretation is the same as yours. I would assume that this is Comcast's policy in most if not all locations since Comcast would not be asking Motorola to produce a box that will send the native signal if a majority of the locations were not doing this.

Originally posted by PaulGo
LaVike - my interpretation is the same as yours. I would assume that this is Comcast's policy in most if not all locations since Comcast would not be asking Motorola to produce a box that will send the native signal if a majority of the locations were not doing this.
I agree, but it would be nice to find a source for Camcast's current standards by "head" location.

Originally posted by htwaits
If I understood scanpa's information, what Comcast does could be different in different areas. Based on lack of information about what's in the wire coming to my house, I'm leaving the 6200 set to 720p for now. :rolleyes: I can't receive a signal on my sammy 720p display if I set the res to 720p on the moto 6412. Maybe the head end in the twin cities transmits everything in 1080i ?

Originally posted by tall1
I can't receive a signal on my sammy 720p display if I set the res to 720p on the moto 6412. Maybe the head end in the twin cities transmits everything in 1080i ?
In that case, if you are using a DVI/HDMI connection, the 6412 should convert 1080i to 720p.

The newer Samsung DLPs and the Moto HD boxes have a compatibility problem on the component inputs. It should accept 720p on the DVI or HDMI connection.

How would having a dvi to hdmi adapter affect my ability to display different resolutions (480i, 480p, 720p, etc). My Moto 6412 has DVI output, my Sony has HDMI input, so I have a converter to make the proper connection. Does anyone see any possible problems with this set up?

I don't see an improvement going from 480i to 480p in the Moto set up menu for the 4:3 override setting. (I have the Sony 30HS420 WS 16:9 tv.) Anyone know why?

Originally posted by ideraid
How would having a dvi to hdmi adapter affect my ability to display different resolutions (480i, 480p, 720p, etc). My Moto 6412 has DVI output, my Sony has HDMI input, so I have a converter to make the proper connection.

The cable isn't a problem. My Samsung HLP5063 doesn't do 480i through HDMI. It will depend on your TV's HDMI port. I use a HDMI cable with a DVI connection on one end.

I have a question that I hope someone can answer for me. On the 6412 Motorola do you have to go into the menu and change your settings when switching from hd to sd programing? In other words if I am watching 1080i and switch to a sd channel should I switch the box to 480i or does it do it automatically?

Originally posted by PaulGo
The newer Samsung DLPs and the Moto HD boxes have a compatibility problem on the component inputs. It should accept 720p on the DVI or HDMI connection. Ahhh, thanks for the answer. I am component from the moto. That explains it!

Originally posted by steverobertson
I have a question that I hope someone can answer for me. On the 6412 Motorola do you have to go into the menu and change your settings when switching from hd to sd programing? In other words if I am watching 1080i and switch to a sd channel should I switch the box to 480i or does it do it automatically? The box can be set to switch resolation automatically by setting 4:3 Override to 480i. To access this setting, power the STB off and then immediately press MENU.

Originally posted by bart745
The box can be set to switch resolation automatically by setting 4:3 Override to 480i. To access this setting, power the STB off and then immediately press MENU.

Thanks

or 480p

When set to 480p mode, some shows make my Sony's screen flicker a little bit. But that could either be the box, the tv, or just the upconversion process in general.

Hi All:

I'm evaluating a switch from D* to Comcast for HD services. I need to know whether or not the Comcast box (no DVR) has the capability to set up timed recordings of cable channels (HD or SD). My Sony D* box allows you to select a program, indicate that you want to record it, and then sends a signal to my DVD recorder to start to record a program. I did not see this as an option with the Comcast STB. Can anyone tell me about this? Thanks.

Is your DVD recorder also made by Sony? It sounds to me like a proprietary feature ... I don't think the Comcast STB (made by Motorola) does that, but don't take that as definitive. I'd suggest asking Comcast, but your luck there is similar to getting the correct answer from the IRS on a tax question.

There are some Comcast knowledgeable types on some of the local threads ... perhaps you could try there?

Originally posted by DeanS
Hi All:

I'm evaluating a switch from D* to Comcast for HD services. I need to know whether or not the Comcast box (no DVR) has the capability to set up timed recordings of cable channels (HD or SD). My Sony D* box allows you to select a program, indicate that you want to record it, and then sends a signal to my DVD recorder to start to record a program. I did not see this as an option with the Comcast STB. Can anyone tell me about this? Thanks.
I recall an old thread where this was being discussed. I believe the key to getting this done (at least in the attached thread) was to plug both the cable box and dvr (firewire) in to a Mitsubishi tv. The Mitsubishi would then control both devices.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=4476788#post4476788

Originally posted by Thameth
Anybody with a Moto 6200 also using a ReplayTV?? Will the Moto accept Serial control?? Or do you HAVE to use the IR Blaster? If so, how do you adjust the IR Blaster to control the 6200.

I have a 6208 controlled by a Replay 5040.

You use the normal Motorola digital box code for IR: 0476 (use the "fine tuning" feature, or it will default to 4476). For Comcast, typically set it to 3-digits, no Enter. You probably want to reduce the times as well for faster channel changing - see the ReplayTV forum. Something like (I forget exactly) 200 100 0 101 or some such. If numbers get dropped or it messes up repeated numbers (like channel 111), increase the relevant timeout.

You have to use the IR sender. I think either side of the front central "window" will do.

Hook the Replay up to the SVideo outputs.

Yes, it is freaky to control one PVR with another. It'd get freakier with a 6412 with dual-tuners....

Had Comcast come out today to swap my single tuner for a duel tuner box (6412) and they told me the remote for the single and duel tuners are the same....For the life of me I can't figure out how to change tuners on the duel tuner box.....am I missing something?

Originally posted by Born2Fly
Had Comcast come out today to swap my single tuner for a duel tuner box (6412) and they told me the remote for the single and duel tuners are the same....For the life of me I can't figure out how to change tuners on the duel tuner box.....am I missing something?

hit the bottom left button on the remote. It says tv/vcr (and 'input' right above it

Originally posted by Born2Fly
Had Comcast come out today to swap my single tuner for a duel tuner box (6412) and they told me the remote for the single and duel tuners are the same....For the life of me I can't figure out how to change tuners on the duel tuner box.....am I missing something?

I don't think they are the same - the 6412 remote should have a button labeled "Swap" on the bottom.

as stated two posts above, if you don't have the new 6412 remote (and from what i can tell they barely ever send that remote out with installations)...you probably have a re-programmed 6408 remote.

the "SWAP TUNER" button will be on the bottom left, labelled "TV INPUT" i believe.

Tried the TV/VCR - Input.....Nothing....And there is no swap button....Will call Comcast this morning...Thanks.

Originally posted by Born2Fly
Had Comcast come out today to swap my single tuner for a duel tuner box (6412) and they told me the remote for the single and duel tuners are the same....For the life of me I can't figure out how to change tuners on the duel tuner box.....am I missing something?
Do a search in the 6412 thread. It is lengthy, but it has info on programming a swap key, a 30 second skip and 180 second skip.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=5473104#post5473104

I also sent you a PM.

Hopefully someone can help me. I posted a question a while back but I really didn't resolve the problem. I bought a Motorola DCT6200 on Ebay and the box turns on but the channel numbre stays on 0 and doesn't change how can i get the channel to change and be able to view the actual programming. Please help.:cool:

Originally posted by santacruz
Hopefully someone can help me. I posted a question a while back but I really didn't resolve the problem. I bought a Motorola DCT6200 on Ebay and the box turns on but the channel numbre stays on 0 and doesn't change how can i get the channel to change and be able to view the actual programming. Please help.:cool:

This was the response from this thread:http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=528888

Originally posted by Ken H
'dl' is download from the cableco, necessary for the STB to function properly.

Plug it back in and wait until dl finishes. If it doesn't take the dl, call the cableco for another STB.

The cable company may not activate a box purchased on ebay - call them for details.

Does your cable provider even use the motorola box? If not, you are out of luck. If they do use the motorola box, it has to be activated by your cable company to use it. Contact your cable company.

I have the same TV the sony 53hs10. I just got a pioneer HD Voyager box. I was able to hook it up where i got sound coming from my yahama sound system but the only picture i got was on video 5 the regular TV had just snow so i was unable to adjust the tv's controls to either 4.3 or 16.9 so i have black spaces on the top and bottom and snow on the TV mode any suggestions? On how to get the HDTV on the regular TV mode so i can adjust the size of the picture. thank you Rita

Is there any way to operate two 6412s in the same room independently with different remote addresses, as I can do with the tivos?

Brian

Im guessing the fear of you hacking your box would stop your cable company from allowing you to use one that you purchased on ebay.

Tried the TV/VCR - Input.....Nothing....And there is no swap button....Will call Comcast this morning...Thanks.


Wilkpedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motorola_6412) has instructions on how to program a swap button & 30 sec skip for your remote. I hope this helps.

The newer Samsung DLPs and the Moto HD boxes have a compatibility problem on the component inputs. It should accept 720p on the DVI or HDMI connection.


True! This is a known issue.

I had the 720p won't sync over component cable connection problem on my 5685w with comcast motorola HD STB. Sammy blamed moto, moto blamed sammy, but circuit city tech was able to order new electronics from sammy that fixed the problem. Now I can output 720p from cable box over component and the tv syncs.

True! This is a known issue.

I had the 720p won't sync over component cable connection problem on my 5685w with comcast motorola HD STB. Sammy blamed moto, moto blamed sammy, but circuit city tech was able to order new electronics from sammy that fixed the problem. Now I can output 720p from cable box over component and the tv syncs.I was considering pushing this with samsung but it seems like a big hassle and I don't want it to break something else. Was the PQ significantly improved? Why not use DVI instead?

I've gotten 2 junk Moto 6200s in the past 2 days. Going in for my 3rd tomorrow. :mad:

Is there any way to operate two 6412s in the same room independently with different remote addresses, as I can do with the tivos?

Brian

No, the 6412 only have one ir code

With some tv/monitors using HDMI / DVI / firewire connections, you have to turn the tv and the cable box on in a special order. So the devices will talk to each other correctly.


Otherwise known as the HDCP handshake or communication problem.

I've had the motorola 6200 for a few weeks now. Yesterday I plugged in an optical cable and ran it to my Denon receiver. Right away I got DD 5.1, which is what I was hoping for. A few hours later I went to watch something else and my receiver is stuck on Pro Logic II. No matter which show I tune in with DD 5.1, the receiver won't pick up the DD 5.1 anymore.
The receiver is set to auto decode.

Any ideas?

No matter which show I tune in with DD 5.1, the receiver won't pick up the DD 5.1 anymore.
The receiver is set to auto decode.

Any ideas?
One might be that no station always broadcasts 5.1 audio.

I suppose the box could be wrong. When I look at the channel guide it shows that the program is in DD 5.1. I replaced the optical cable with a dig. coax, just to see if that did anything different. Same thing. I'm definitely getting a signal from the optical and dig. coax. it's just DPL2 and not DD 5.1

Ok, I think I am experiencing what may be an unreported problem with my 6214. My series priority list is all screwed up. I have numbers missing in the order of shows (e.g. the list goes 1.2.3.7.8......) Also, some numbers repeat (20.20.21.21.22.23.) If there is a series I wish to move up or down, if it is near that discrepency in the numbers, I can't move it past the problem area. What happens is it will duplicate the name of the series, or jump way down to another number when I hit the page down to move it!!! Do I need a new box or what? Has anyone had problems adjusting series priorities? I also have 2 phantom recordings in my saved DVR programs. I think that problem has been discussed already though.

Thanks

Just wanted to post that the DD problem is solved. I read somewhere that using On Demand causes a problem with the audio. All I had to do was click On Demand once more and everything went back to normal. I watched the 3 Doors Down concert in DD 5.1 tonight.

I have a moto dct 5100 connected to a replay 5040 via svideo. The picture looks good on sd and analog channels, but recordings from HD channels seem too dark to me. Is this a known issue? Any way workarounds?

thanks a ton

My Comcast HD box has does a very poor job of zooming in to 4:3 on the 1080i channels. The vertical resolution is very low, and there are weird white lines on the left side of the screen. Fox and ABC don't have this problem, which is why I assume it's a 1080i issue. Is there any way to fix this? I'm in Philadelphia, and even though all the SD channels are simulcast digitally, the HD channels look much better, even when they're showing SD programming.

When switching from 1080i to 480i or vice/versa, the screen flickers. Is this just from changing resolutions? Is there a setting to eliminate this?

I just got a Comcast HD box (no DVR) for my new 50phd8UK Panny. It is a DCT 5100. According to the local Comcast center this is the only HD box I can get that isn't DVR. AmI missing anything? Digital audioa nd HD looks incredible SD is OK which I have set to 480i override for 4:3. The only thing I don't think the DCT does that I probably would want is a passthrough mode instead of having the STB set to 1080i or 720p. Am I missing out on anything with this older box?

I have both a 5100 and a 6412 and have had them hooked up to both of my high def displays. IMO the 5100 produces a slightly better picture than the 6412 on SD and about the same on HD/digital channels. The reason for this I think is that the signal does not have to be split, since there is only one tuner. You should be fine with the 5100 if you don't want a DVR.

I found some online reports, and my set IS HDCP compliant. so that is not the issue. Any other ideas?


Hi,
I would recommend swapping out with another STB. I just got the Motorola 6412III from my cable provider (Insight Communications) with HDMI out, and the first box they gave me put no signal out the HDMI. I returned it and got a replacement box that did acutally put a signla out the HDMI output, but I kept getting a 'HDCP Authenication Failure' message, and the screen would go blank. I know my JVC 48-WP74 is HDCP compliant, as I have used it with high def boxes from Pioneer and Pace. So...I took it back once again (rather than deal with the idiots they send out to the house) and got a third box. Bingo, it sync'd with no problem and now I have true high def. The only problem is the picture looks no better than it did via component out, and in fact the colors appear much more faded. Now I am contemplating a forth go at it.....hmmm...do I feel lucky??

Good Luck.

GJK

...The only problem is the picture looks no better than it did via component out, and in fact the colors appear much more faded. Now I am contemplating a forth go at it.....hmmm...do I feel lucky??

Good Luck.

GJK

GJK,

Make sure you do a calibration on the HDMI input of your TV and also remember that DVI/HDMI or any other digital video transmission is usually a true representation of the source and those "muted" colors are probably more correct to specs. The component outputs of many devices are over saturated and that's probably why they seem more vivid. If you can, try to see if your TV has saturation controls for the HDMI input and tweak it up to match the component signal, if that's the way you like it?

If the HDMI is calibrated properly and there's no problems with it, it should look better than component with less noise and a slightly sharper image.

It may also have something to do with where the signal is converted from YPbPr to RGBHV, either in the 6412 or the TV. With HDMI it should converted in the 6412 (if in RGB mode) and with YPbPr it would be in the TV.

Good Luck:)

GJK,

Make sure you do a calibration on the HDMI input of your TV and also remember that DVI/HDMI or any other digital video transmission is usually a true representation of the source and those "muted" colors are probably more correct to specs. The component outputs of many devices are over saturated and that's probably why they seem more vivid. If you can, try to see if your TV has saturation controls for the HDMI input and tweak it up to match the component signal, if that's the way you like it?

If the HDMI is calibrated properly and there's no problems with it, it should look better than component with less noise and a slightly sharper image.

It may also have something to do with where the signal is converted from YPbPr to RGBHV, either in the 6412 or the TV. With HDMI it should converted in the 6412 (if in RGB mode) and with YPbPr it would be in the TV.

Good Luck:)
Dave,
Your comments made me realize that I have never calibrated this TV via its DVI input (I am using a HDMI to DVI conversion cable), rather the calibrations have been with my DVD player thru the component inputs. Maybe that is why the colors seem more faded via the DVI input since the component inputs would normally be more saturated, and the calibration I did put the colors back into the proper range for a component input, but this is not appropriate for the DVI input. I will try to get a DVD player with DVI out and do a calibration with that.
Thanks,
Greg

My home theater sits directly in front of a small gym. They are separated by french doors. I'm running two speakers in the gym as Zone 2 out of my Denon 3803 receiver. One can see the theater projection screen from the gym when the French doors are open. The Denon receiver can only accept an analog input for Zone 2 audio assignment. I run digital coax out of the DVR box to the receiver for the sound in the actual theater and analog left / right audio out of the DVR box for the Zone 2 assigment. The problem is that the sound coming from the Zone 2 speakers is not loud at all. I have to turn the Zone 2 volume way, way up to hear anything significant. I do the same sort of assignment process when I'm using my dvd player and it works perfectly. No problem with the Zone 2 volume level at all when running digital coax and analog out of my dvd player (Sony dvp ns 755) at the same time. Anyone trying to do anything similar with their Motorola DVR box? Can't remember the model number. 6200 or higher if memory serves me correct. The volume level in the theater is fine when running these two audio outputs at the same time from the DVR box. Problem is only with the Zone 2 out of DVR using analog.

Have you tried configuring audio compression on the Motorola box to 'heavy'?

Usually DD has audio that is outside the range of the analog RCA. Compression adjust everything so you get full sound rather than dropped out sound.

Dave,
Your comments made me realize that I have never calibrated this TV via its DVI input (I am using a HDMI to DVI conversion cable), rather the calibrations have been with my DVD player thru the component inputs. Maybe that is why the colors seem more faded via the DVI input since the component inputs would normally be more saturated, and the calibration I did put the colors back into the proper range for a component input, but this is not appropriate for the DVI input. I will try to get a DVD player with DVI out and do a calibration with that.
Thanks,
Greg


Glad I could be here to "jog" your memory Greg;)!!!

I wouldn't recommend using a DVD player to do the calibration if at all possible. NTSC (DVD) and ATSC (HDTV) use slightly different color points and your calibration will be ever so slightly wrong. Not all DVD players, when they upconvert to 720p/1080i, use the correct color points and/or go from one format (NTSC) to the other (ATSC) correctly.

I would record the INHD "TUNE UP" on sat morning and use that as the calibration tool/patterns.

I just got a motorola 6412 phase 3 and have a Samsung HDTV. I can run the HD through the component cables but when I try to run it through the HDMI I get a brief picture that goes green and then a no signal/weak signal message. does anybody know if this is a problem with the box or the HDMI cable?

It could be a combo of many things. Try swapping cables first, then try other HDMI/DVI sources if you have them to see if it's the TV. The TV you have is HDCP compliant right?

I did have a Phase II 6412 that had a bad DVI port, so that could be the issue also:(.

Not sure if anyone else has this problem.

I have a Moto 6412 DVR hooked up via HDMI to DVI and Audio goes through the Toslink cable to an Onkyo receiver. Here's my problem. When I shutoff the power to the DVR the sound remains on. I need to either change to another input on the receiver, turn the volume down, or shut it off.

The other issue is sometimes when I turn the DVR on there is video and no sound. If I select a recorded show and click play, the sound goes back on.

Very strange...anybody else see this?

Not sure if anyone else has this problem.

I have a Moto 6412 DVR hooked up via HDMI to DVI and Audio goes through the Toslink cable to an Onkyo receiver. Here's my problem. When I shutoff the power to the DVR the sound remains on. I need to either change to another input on the receiver, turn the volume down, or shut it off.

The other issue is sometimes when I turn the DVR on there is video and no sound. If I select a recorded show and click play, the sound goes back on.

Very strange...anybody else see this?
Standard 6412 behaviour. Spend some time in the 6412 thread: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6422496#post6422496

The simple fix is never turn your dvr off. Many problems are associated with turning this box off.

thanks I will post it there...lots to read man...wow ...

Have you tried configuring audio compression on the Motorola box to 'heavy'?

Usually DD has audio that is outside the range of the analog RCA. Compression adjust everything so you get full sound rather than dropped out sound.

I will try that. If it works I'll change the setting to heavy when I'm going to be using the gym in Zone 2. Probably change it back to none when just using the theater though. It's my understaning that compression takes everything and keeps it in a certain range. I don't want the sound compressed in the theater. I want the full spectrum for that. Thanks.

Dan,

If I remember correctly, the heavy compression only refers to the analog audio outs, not the digital toslink/coax. I think you said you are using digital in the theater, so it should be a moot point. Try changing the setting while listening to something in the theater and see if it affects the sound.

Dan,

If I remember correctly, the heavy compression only refers to the analog audio outs, not the digital toslink/coax. I think you said you are using digital in the theater, so it should be a moot point. Try changing the setting while listening to something in the theater and see if it affects the sound.

Correct, the Audio settings in the Iguide setup menu only effect the Analog RCA & RF audio output.

Dan,

If I remember correctly, the heavy compression only refers to the analog audio outs, not the digital toslink/coax. I think you said you are using digital in the theater, so it should be a moot point. Try changing the setting while listening to something in the theater and see if it affects the sound.

Yes, all is fine now. Zone 2 speaker volume is normal now with the compression set to Heavy. I kind of thought that the compression settings only affected the analog when I switched to Heavy compression and listened for differences in the digital audio. There were none. That being the case I will now simply leave the setting to Heavy at all times. Thanks to all for their input.

I am glad it all worked out for you:)!!!

--I have the 5100 through RCN
--I do not have a surround pre-pro, only a DAC
Many channels are broadcasting DD5.1 and through the SPDIF COAX output my DAC cannot decode DD5.1. Is there a way to FORCE the SPDIF ouput into PCM only--no DD--for all channels regardless of broadcast format?

GJK,

Make sure you do a calibration on the HDMI input of your TV and also remember that DVI/HDMI or any other digital video transmission is usually a true representation of the source and those "muted" colors are probably more correct to specs. The component outputs of many devices are over saturated and that's probably why they seem more vivid. If you can, try to see if your TV has saturation controls for the HDMI input and tweak it up to match the component signal, if that's the way you like it?

If the HDMI is calibrated properly and there's no problems with it, it should look better than component with less noise and a slightly sharper image.

It may also have something to do with where the signal is converted from YPbPr to RGBHV, either in the 6412 or the TV. With HDMI it should converted in the 6412 (if in RGB mode) and with YPbPr it would be in the TV.

Good Luck:)

Dave, many threads here and on other sites have complained about the soft (washed out) picture resulting from using the digital out (DVI/HDMI) on the Motorola boxes over the past couple of years. After repeatedly tweaking my own set I finally gave up and use the component outs. The digital out seemed to be almost an afterthought for Motorola as many of the first 5100 boxes did not even have DVI ports.


I surmised that Motorola did not use the correct color space when it implemented the digital out. This is similar to what happened with many of the original upconverting DVD players that exhibited the dreaded "black crush" when the digital out was used. The way this was discovered was that many first generation upconverting DVD players would not pass BTB when using the digital out. Is there a way to test the 6412 to confirm the HDMI out passes BTB?

I can't speak for the rest of you, but I clearly got better results using the DVI/HDMI out of my Motorola boxes:confused: I think they are not calibrating the DVI out and just comparing it directly to the YUV out, which they probably did cal when they first set it up..

I would set up a recording to record the INHD Test Patterns, I think on Sat mornings. Then save it on your HD of your PVR. Use those patterns to set up the outputs. I can't remember off-hand if it had BTB, but it has useful patterns to do a fairly good cal on a TV.

If you're not happy, you could always hire me to do a full up ISF cal and then some on your unit;)!!!

When I had mine ISF calibrated, the tech (who is supposed to be the best in this area) did not measure hardly any difference on my display (70" Sony) between component and DVI. We ended up using component for the 6412 and DVI on my DVD player (Denon 3910) where DVI produced a slightly better picture. Anyway when he was done I was very happy with the results on both.

Measuring won't necessarily show it. It's hard to measure noise, that's a thing that is best seen by the trained eye. There are certain patterns that can show differences, did he use those?

Measuring won't necessarily show it. It's hard to measure noise, that's a thing that is best seen by the trained eye. There are certain patterns that can show differences, did he use those?

The guy who did mine is Pat Bradley. He travels the country and does ISF training all over. He spent about 2 1/2 hours on my system, using several different devices and Avia Pro. Before he got here I had sent him a large calibration file authored by "umr" on these forums, and he used this as a guide in the service menu but ultimately found that many of umr's recommended settings were off, at least for my display and sources. Anyway this guy certainly does have a very trained eye, and it was a process of measure, view and adjust all the way through. It was fairly expensive at around $450 but I consider it to be money well spent as it looks much much better than what I was able to get just using the user menus.

I have heard of Pat. Please know I was not doubting his abilities or his "traiined eye", I was just saying that all things being equal, avoiding the D-A and A-D conversions should result in a cleaner signal and thus a better image overall. That's the way it is in my system and many that I have calibrated. I can't speak for your specific area and cable system or the quality of your cable box.

I am glad that you are happy and he did a great job with your system:)!!! I'm sure he will agree, no two systems are identical and each will have slightly differing results.

I would set up a recording to record the INHD Test Patterns, I think on Sat mornings. Then save it on your HD of your PVR. Use those patterns to set up the outputs. I can't remember off-hand if it had BTB, but it has useful patterns to do a fairly good cal on a TV.

I just started watching HD via the DCT6200 on a my new Toshiba 26HF85. I'm going through the component inputs and I'm having trouble getting the calibration right. I can't record those patterns because I don't have a DVR which can record HD. Can anyone point me to a resource that can guide me through?

Thanks,

Matt

When you watch the patterns they explain what to do for each one. You have to be fast though as they are only up about 2 minutes each, that's why it's easier to record them, then you can pause as needed.

Can you exchange your unit for a DVR? In my area a DVR is only about $1 more than renting a regular digital box.

I connected my Comcast box 6200 to my Olevia 42HVi HDTV thru the component video connection with the audio connect thru red/white connections. I turn cable box on but I don't get any sound. Could it be the cables? Also, I connected the PS2 and XBox thru a video switcher to the s-video connection in the TV and I also get video but no audio. When I plug-in the PS2 directly to the TV, I get video and audio. I am using Monster Cable THXI100-16 Monster Standard® THX-Certified Audio Interconnect Cable (Monster Cable THXI10016). I am using the same cables for the audio in the component and s-video connections. I am completely baffle.

I connected my Comcast box 6200 to my Olevia 42HVi HDTV thru the component video connection with the audio connect thru red/white connections. I turn cable box on but I don't get any sound. Could it be the cables? Also, I connected the PS2 and XBox thru a video switcher to the s-video connection in the TV and I also get video but no audio. When I plug-in the PS2 directly to the TV, I get video and audio. I am using Monster Cable THXI100-16 Monster Standard® THX-Certified Audio Interconnect Cable (Monster Cable THXI10016). I am using the same cables for the audio in the component and s-video connections. I am completely baffle.

Check the Comcast 6200 menu for Audio setup. I believe you want it set to TV sound. It may be set for Dolby out to a Receiver.

I connected my Comcast box 6200 to my Olevia 42HVi HDTV thru the component video connection with the audio connect thru red/white connections. I turn cable box on but I don't get any sound. Could it be the cables? Also, I connected the PS2 and XBox thru a video switcher to the s-video connection in the TV and I also get video but no audio. When I plug-in the PS2 directly to the TV, I get video and audio. I am using Monster Cable THXI100-16 Monster Standard® THX-Certified Audio Interconnect Cable (Monster Cable THXI10016). I am using the same cables for the audio in the component and s-video connections. I am completely baffle.

Regarding the PS2 and Xbox connection via a s video connection. S video does not carry an audio signal. You need a separate audio connection from the PS2/Xbox to the tv. Are you using a receiver in your setup, one might simplify your connections by routing all of your audio to a receiver. With the right receiver you could route your video also. If you have an HDTV you are missing out on Dolby Digital audio if you are connecting your audio thru the Red/White connections. You should be using a DD receiver unless your HDTV has an OTA tuner. Does your Comcast 6200 have a DD output either optical or coaxial? If so that is the audio output you want to use. Normally this connection is to a Dolby Digital receiver unless your Olivia has a DD input. But then you would need a surround sound system tom get the full benefit of DD 5.1.

I have a question regarding the use of an external hard drive with either the Motorola DCT6208 or DCT6412. I found an online Motorola info sheet that indicates that this is possible with the DCT6208 but I haven't been able to find any real world reports on this.

Has anyone managed to hook up an external Firewire-based hard drive to expand the storage capacity of either of these Motorola models? If so, how has this worked out?

Thanks,

Bob

I have a question regarding the use of an external hard drive with either the Motorola DCT6208 or DCT6412. I found an online Motorola info sheet that indicates that this is possible with the DCT6208 but I haven't been able to find any real world reports on this.

Has anyone managed to hook up an external Firewire-based hard drive to expand the storage capacity of either of these Motorola models? If so, how has this worked out?

Thanks,

Bob

As long as ther IEEE1394 port is active, you can add any IEEE1394 device (from an external drive to a PC) to either STB. This applies to *all* DCT-6xxx STBs with IEEE1394 connectivity (DCT-6200/6208/6412/6416).

As long as ther IEEE1394 port is active, you can add any IEEE1394 device (from an external drive to a PC) to either STB. This applies to *all* DCT-6xxx STBs with IEEE1394 connectivity (DCT-6200/6208/6412/6416).Well, maybe you can hook it up - but how do you get the STB to actually *use* the external drive for its DVR storage? I believe that's the real question the poster was asking.

As long as ther IEEE1394 port is active, you can add any IEEE1394 device (from an external drive to a PC) to either STB. This applies to *all* DCT-6xxx STBs with IEEE1394 connectivity (DCT-6200/6208/6412/6416).

WRONG!

IEEE1394 & SATA ports both require the device drivers to be installed and activated at the cable Co. Head End. Plant & passed on in the DVR Firmware.

Right now both ports are activated but not supported due to no drivers in the Firmware.. (not to mention the support devices list has External HD set to NO!)

Thanks for all the replies.

Yes, my question was if an external hard drive could be used to provide additional storage for the DVR.

So it sounds as if the capability would be available if the firmware had the needed drivers loaded.

Is there any chance this will ever happen?

I'm a new DVR user and I think the technology is great. But I would love to be able to record more than 6 or 7 hours of HD material.

Bob

Is there any chance this will ever happen?
Unlikely. There's no incentive for Comcast to do this. And unlike the straight firewire output (which does work), there's no FCC mandate either.

Thanks.

So would a Firewire-equipped, HD capable VCR be the only option to record additional HD material outside of the DVR?

Bob

Unlikely. There's no incentive for Comcast to do this. And unlike the straight firewire output (which does work), there's no FCC mandate either.

Thanks.

So would a Firewire-equipped, HD capable VCR be the only option to record additional HD material outside of the DVR?

BobAFAIK that's the only option for recording EVERY HD channel. D-VHS decks like those from JVC support the "5C" copy-protection scheme needed to decrypt those channels flagged as "copy once".

You can also record HD from the cable box via firewire to your PC -- see this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=403695) for details. Your PC of course isn't compliant with 5C copy-protection, so it will only be able to record those shows flagged "copy always". In most Comcast areas, this includes all the local HD stations, and sometimes other non-premium channels as well. Not sure about other cable cos.

Thanks for the excellent summary jimre!

Bob
AFAIK that's the only option for recording EVERY HD channel. D-VHS decks like those from JVC support the "5C" copy-protection scheme needed to decrypt those channels flagged as "copy once".

You can also record HD from the cable box via firewire to your PC -- see this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=403695) for details. Your PC of course isn't compliant with 5C copy-protection, so it will only be able to record those shows flagged "copy always". In most Comcast areas, this includes all the local HD stations, and sometimes other non-premium channels as well. Not sure about other cable cos.

Anyone notice a firmware change recently on 5100 and/or 6412 DVR boxes in the last week or so (Comcast/Malvern-PA headend)? We noticed one morning that the 5100 had turned off (we never turn it off; it feeds a ReplayTV) and the 6412 was off and locked up solid. Since then, the 6412 has locked up at least once/day - if it's on, it continues to play, but doesn't respond to anything including power-off.

After an eight week wait I was finally able to pick a dual tuner 6412 DVR to replace my single tuner model.

Can anyone provide and tips or suggestions to get the most out of this model?

Thanks,

Bob

After an eight week wait I was finally able to pick a dual tuner 6412 DVR to replace my single tuner model.

Can anyone provide and tips or suggestions to get the most out of this model?

Thanks,

Bob

Try in one of the 64xx STB threads located:

AVS Forum > HDTV HDTV Recorders Category

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=42

:)

Thanks for the help. I'll start reading those 6412 threads.


Bob

Try in one of the 64xx STB threads located:

AVS Forum > HDTV HDTV Recorders Category

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=42

:)

Thanks for the help. I'll start reading those 6412 threads.

Well it looks like there's a problem with the particular 6412 DVR that I picked up yesterday. It will not tune in channels 3 through 24 or so. Channel 2 comes in fine as do all the higher channel numbers. For all of the missing channels I get a "Please Wait - This channel will be available shortly" message. Our previous single tuner DVR tuned in these channels fine.

I called Comcast and they said to unplug the cable box for a few seconds. That had no effect. I called again and they said that a service technician will need to check it out in person. She said that she checked the box remotely and it's responding fine. So I have an service tech appointment scheduled for Tuesday.

Is there anything else I can check out on my end before the service tech arrives?

Bob

Please take this qiestion to the proper forum.

Will Do!

Bob

Please take this qiestion to the proper forum.

I did searches on this and found green flashes galore, but I went to turn on my 6412III and I get a second of the regular screen then BOOM a solid Green Screen. My DVD player and TIVO unit work well (DVD via HDMI and TIVO via Svideo). It worked fine 3 hours ago. I unplugged and plugged back in no joy. Tried hitting menu to bring up the White screen for service menu and it shows up for about 2 seconds then GREEN SCREEN again.

Please see the post 2 posts up from yours by scanpa;)!!!

To answer your questions though, what I do is switch to a channel that has a different resolution, i.e - if on an HD channel, go to SD, and vice versa. This makes the HDMI resolution reboot and it re-initializes the HDMI connection. I think you have to have the box's "480 OVERRIDE" to "480i or p" for this to work though. You can also try swapping tuners.

Thanks for all the replies.

Yes, my question was if an external hard drive could be used to provide additional storage for the DVR.

So it sounds as if the capability would be available if the firmware had the needed drivers loaded.

Is there any chance this will ever happen?

I'm a new DVR user and I think the technology is great. But I would love to be able to record more than 6 or 7 hours of HD material.

Bob


Can you just take out the Hdd in the comcast dvr box and put all the software and whatever is needed on a new larger hdd and put that new larger hdd in the box to get more dvr storage?

sorta like putting a larger hdd in an xbox.

Can you just take out the Hdd in the comcast dvr box and put all the software and whatever is needed on a new larger hdd and put that new larger hdd in the box to get more dvr storage?

sorta like putting a larger hdd in an xbox.

No!

They are special Hard Drives made for DVR use. and have built in DRM to handle 5c & other copy control schemes. The STB model number tells you the size of the HDD allowed.

ex: 34xx & 64xx -- the xx is the HDD size.

6208 & 6408 = 080 GB
3412 & 6412 = 120 GB
3416 & 6416 = 160 GB
3425 = 250 GB
3432 = 320 GB
3450 = 500 GB

Besides opening the STB up will void your Rental agreement with your cable provider.

hm, i think i only have the 120 gb will have to check again, well one is an older DVI dvr box and one is the newer hdmi one but both i think are 120
how do you get the 160-500gb dvr?

No!

They are special Hard Drives made for DVR use. and have built in DRM to handle 5c & other copy control schemes. The STB model number tells you the size of the HDD allowed.

ex: 34xx & 64xx -- the xx is the HDD size.

6208 & 6408 = 080 GB
3412 & 6412 = 120 GB
3416 & 6416 = 160 GB
3425 = 250 GB
3432 = 320 GB
3450 = 500 GB

Besides opening the STB up will void your Rental agreement with your cable provider.

You have to call your local office and see which ones they provide.

hm, i think i only have the 120 gb will have to check again, well one is an older DVI dvr box and one is the newer hdmi one but both i think are 120
how do you get the 160-500gb dvr?

Comcast & COX & TWC have only ordered 6412 & 3412 Models (all 120gb HDD)

The 6208 is the single tuner DVR w/ 80 gb HDD.

Verizon FIOS has the 6412 & 6416.

Hey scanpa,

Since you're in my neck o' the woods, can you tell me if Verizon has FIOS around here yet?

Hey scanpa,

Since you're in my neck o' the woods, can you tell me if Verizon has FIOS around here yet?

Hummelstown and Some other areas of Lower Swatara Twp. have it now.

50 % of Harrisburg is laid for it and should have it available by late summer/ Fall 2006. All of Dauphin County by end of 2007.

Most of my area (Lebanon County) is getting it laid now. Should be available here in South Londonderry Twp. Jan 2007.

Cant wait. Cause Comcastic service will be Gone...... :D

Cool, thanks:) (I hope you didn't get pasted by that tornado that ripped thru there a while back:eek:???)

Could someone here please tell me the dimensions of the Motorola DCT5100?

Width is especially crucial, since the user guide -- which doesn't list dimensions -- says 2 inches of clearance is needed all around for ventilation. I don't think I'm going to have that in the console I'm using for my home theater electronics.

DCT5100 is the stb used by my cableco (RCN) and I want to learn as much about it as possible before upping my service to HD.

Just got a Panny 42PX60 this weekend.

Thanks.

Could someone here please tell me the dimensions of the Motorola DCT5100?

Width is especially crucial, since the user guide -- which doesn't list dimensions -- says 2 inches of clearance is needed all around for ventilation. I don't think I'm going to have that in the console I'm using for my home theater electronics.

DCT5100 is the stb used by my cableco (RCN) and I want to learn as much about it as possible before upping my service to HD.

Just got a Panny 42PX60 this weekend.

Thanks.

Unless you have a Cooling system in your E-Center the STB needs to be in the open, with nothing above or below it.

Size is 17.13 in X 12.75 in X 2.75 in

I have the install guide if needed.

Thanks!

17.13 means zero clearance in the open-front center section of the console. The current cable box is there with zero clearance, but it has no side vents. Same with the Onkyo receiver (Onkyo tech support said that's ok).

The two side compartments, behind glass doors, are wider, and will allow almost the full recommended clearance.

I guess I'm going to have to have to install a silent fan in the back of the console. Or maybe sit it right on the STB to pull air through. If there's a switched outlet on the back, I could rig it so the fan is only on when the box is on.

Setting it out in the open is not an option. With the TV cenetered, there's no room on top of the console. And it would not look good in the new room

Thanks again for the quick reply. Faster than Moto!

Ken

Hey, I have the DCT6200 and I'm wondering how to force it to change channels automatically, whiout having to press enter etc. I'm trying to record via firewire with capdvhs on one channel, then on a different channel a few hours later.

Thanks!

Hey, I have the DCT6200 and I'm wondering how to force it to change channels automatically, whiout having to press enter etc. I'm trying to record via firewire with capdvhs on one channel, then on a different channel a few hours later.

Thanks!
It is in the menu/setup options. I think it is called something like Auto Tune.

I recently hooked a DCT6200 up to a Samsung LNS3241d via DVI -> HDMI cable and have a question that I wonder if someone might be able to help with (even with the little info I'll be able to provide).

The cable box (the 6200) was just picked up from Comcast yesterday to go along with the TV, which was a gift for my parents. I only had a limited amount of time to do the setup, which went fairly well and they really appreciated the HD experience.

The problem I am looking for help on is when trying to change channels to the low channels numbers. Using the remote that Comcast provide (sorry - don't know the brand or model), and trying to change channels from say 804 to 51, I see the numbers 51 echo on the stb but then immediately clear from the display and the channel doesn't change. Changing channels one at a time with the up/down button works fine (e.g. can scroll down to any channel - just have to be willing to press the button dozens of times!).

Unfortunately, I had to leave before getting a chance to do much experimentation to really figure out what was going on.

Now as I type this, I realize that it could be an issue with two digit channels - would it have worked if I entered 051? Or perhaps there was an "enter" key that could be used as well, but wasn't needed for 3-digit channels?

As I recall in the setup menu there is an option that allows you to choose how this works - sorry but I do not have access at the moment.

Now as I type this, I realize that it could be an issue with two digit channels - would it have worked if I entered 051? Or perhaps there was an "enter" key that could be used as well, but wasn't needed for 3-digit channels?
Yes. Yes.

Like the previous post mentioned, there is an option in the menues called something like "auto tune" or "auto channel". If you turn that option on, entering 1 or 2 digits only will change the channel.

Thanks in advance for any help. I have a Motorola dual tuner high def box. I keep it on all the time. My receiver displays a blue light when it receives a surround signal. Very often, the reciver will only say "PCM" when I tune to a surround broadcast. If I turn the box off and back on, the receiver gets the surround signal and the blue light comes on.

I don't understand why the cable box, at some point, stops sending the correct signal until it is powered off and on.

thanks again.

Thanks in advance for any help. I have a Motorola dual tuner high def box. I keep it on all the time. My receiver displays a blue light when it receives a surround signal. Very often, the reciver will only say "PCM" when I tune to a surround broadcast. If I turn the box off and back on, the receiver gets the surround signal and the blue light comes on.

I don't understand why the cable box, at some point, stops sending the correct signal until it is powered off and on.

thanks again.
Your cable box is probably a 3412 or 6412. If you don't receive an answer on this forum, you are better off trying this one instead. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=604142&goto=newpost

If you repost, be sure to post what type of connections, tv and receiver you are using for audio and video, since many AV problems can be attributed to DVI/HDMI connections and handshake issues.

I have the same problem with my Motorola DCT6412 and Bose Stereo Receiver. My work around is to turn the Bose off and on. It has never failed to recover. I will try powering the DCT 6412 off and on the next time it fails. It is a real nuisance; if anyone has a solution, I would appreciate hearing about it.

Gene

Thanks for the response. I posted to the forum you suggested.

Gene, I haven't tried turning the receiver off and on. It's a Sony.

opchiasm, I was able to recreate the problem yesterday and turning the DCT6412 off and on had no effect. To recover I had to turn the Bose receiver off and on. It sure is annoying. About six months ago I discussed the problem with Bose and they had not heard of it and, of course, suggested that it was the STB.

Gene.

Hello-

I was wondering if this STB could output on both a component and DVI outputs simultaneously.

I am planning a new HT in my basement and wanted to ascertain whether I should run a component cable and digital audio cable up to my 1st floor equipment closet to use the 6412 as my tuner for my projector. I don't plan on renting another STB for the HT as it will be used for movies and OTA HDTV. However, every so often, it may be nice to watch an HBO or ESPN football game in HD on the big(er) screen in the basement.

TIA,
T.Wells

how do I get to the override menu? I am trying to set up a friend's motorola box from Comcast and his laptop is running out of batteries... I searched and searched, but couldn't find exactly what I need...


thanks in advance!

how do I get to the override menu? I am trying to set up a friend's motorola box from Comcast and his laptop is running out of batteries... I searched and searched, but couldn't find exactly what I need...


thanks in advance!

STB on:

STB: off

press Menu to access the user settings on /\/\otorola DCT-STB

I have an HDMI audio problem with my 6412, but it seems to be different from what others have reported; I never turn my box off, but occasionally when I turn my TV on (the only outputs I have connected from the 6412 are HDMI to my TV and Component to my DVD recorder), there is no sound (it returns when I change channels). Recently, it happened while the TV was already on; in the middle of an HD program (1080i), the screen froze for a couple of seconds, then there was the pixellation effect, and then the video was normal again but the audio was off. Again, changing channels brought it back, so I am assuming it was the cable box and not the signal itself (although with KNTV-HD, you can never be entirely sure).

Has anyone else had this problem when the TV was already on?

-- Don

so i'm assuming with the DVD recorder you can record tv to dvd. Even stuff you playback off your comcast dvr? if you want to delete it off your dvr but want to keep a copy of it you can record it to DVD on the dvd recorder while playing it back of the dvr?

that would be great for movies in HD. are the movies comcast does in HD or like HBO HD 1080p and on par with hd-dvd and bluray? or are they just 720p./1080i? still good though and cheaper then buying a movie on hddvd or bluray and the player.

I just got a 5100 today and I was reading the first page without checking the date and got all excited about an upgrade and then I saw the date! from 2002! Holy crap these boxes are old. I thought they update the models every few years? Is the 5100 still the highest Non-DVR HD receiver? Or is there something newer that they didn't give me?

EDIT: I see there's a DCT6200 model now. Does Comcast offer it?

Are there any adjustments for the screen image on in the 5100?

I used to get a full screen image on 720p, but last week I began to see a border around the HD and SD images. I exchanged the box but have the same problem. I have a Sammy 46" DLP about 1.5 years old. I don't think it's the TV because DVD's play full screen. If I set the 5100 to 1080i it fills the screen, even overshoots a little. Does anyone know of a way to alter the picture size from the 5100, or the Sammy for that matter?

I just got a 5100 today and I was reading the first page without checking the date and got all excited about an upgrade and then I saw the date! from 2002! Holy crap these boxes are old. I thought they update the models every few years? Is the 5100 still the highest Non-DVR HD receiver? Or is there something newer that they didn't give me?

EDIT: I see there's a DCT6200 model now. Does Comcast offer it?

It has been offered by Comcast in my area for several years.

I just got a 5100 with comcast in AA county MD. It is hooked up to my Maxent MX-5020HPM with a DVI > HDMI cable.

1. I have the 5100 outputing 780P is that right?
2. I want SD an HD in 16:9 format how do I do that?
3. Some of the local HD stations display with black bars on all 4 sides, top and bottom, or left and right.... why does this happen?

I just got a 5100 with comcast in AA county MD. It is hooked up to my Maxent MX-5020HPM with a DVI > HDMI cable.

1. I have the 5100 outputing 780P is that right?
2. I want SD an HD in 16:9 format how do I do that?
3. Some of the local HD stations display with black bars on all 4 sides, top and bottom, or left and right.... why does this happen?


Not all shows are in HD format on HD local channels. Not all shows are filmed in Widescrean Format.

Use your TV picture mode / zoom mode to convert the image to fit a widescreen tv.

Not all shows are in HD format on HD local channels. Not all shows are filmed in Widescrean Format.

Use your TV picture mode / zoom mode to convert the image to fit a widescreen tv.


That clears it up, thank you!

This was posted in the Samsung TVs section, but I'm reposting here since I strongly believe its Comcast problem. Please post any info you might have re this. Thanks.

Hey all. Just got S5687W set, but already have few problems:

Before, we had R5067W unit for a year+ (worked great, but only 720p) so decided to upgrade to a better/bigger model. Right after purchasing R5067 unit, we signed up w/Comcast for HD Channels, and they worked great on the old unit. But now, after connecting new TV to same Comcast box, it shows WEAK or NO SIGNAL. Afterwhich, it shows picture for a second or two and goes back to WEAK or NO SIGNAL. <<< That only happens when i run using: (cable box) DVI > HDMI to (tv).
IF I switch to compon.cables, it doesnt do that BUT the picture quality shows lots of noise.
???

It [6200] has been offered by Comcast in my area for several years.

Yeah, my 5100 was acting screwy so Comcast came out and replaced it with a 6200. :D Definitely feels a bit snappier.

Question about the 6200: How do I set it so it will output the native resolution of the incoming program, instead of only outputting 1080i for HD stuff. For example, it output Fox and ESPN stuff at 1080i, when it should be 720p.

Question 2: The general consensus is that component seems to yield the best picture quality results, compared to DVI and HDMI. So, what about for audio? Anyone wanna comment on the optical vs. coaxial connections?

Yeah, my 5100 was acting screwy so Comcast came out and replaced it with a 6200. :D Definitely feels a bit snappier.

Question about the 6200: How do I set it so it will output the native resolution of the incoming program, instead of only outputting 1080i for HD stuff. For example, it output Fox and ESPN stuff at 1080i, when it should be 720p.

Question 2: The general consensus is that component seems to yield the best picture quality results, compared to DVI and HDMI. So, what about for audio? Anyone wanna comment on the optical vs. coaxial connections?

1) You cannot specify 1080i or 720p for individual channels, in advance - you have to choose one or the other unless you go into the setup menu each time you change channels.

2) I don't think you would be able to tell the difference between Toslink and coaxial, but if you have a very high end audio system and have very sensitive hearing, then only you can be the judgef of which is better sounding on your system.

The DCT - 51xx & 52xx HD STB were the last models to have Native HD output available in the user menu.

The DCT 6200, 6208, 64xx, 34xx series no longer have "native"

^I am losing quality because the STB is doing the scaling from 720p to 1080i instead of my TV?

^I am losing quality because the STB is doing the scaling from 720p to 1080i instead of my TV?

only a few HD channels (FOX, ABC, ESPN) are broadcasting at 720p Most are 1080i

Comcast sends everything else in 1080i

Does anyone know what the ethernet port is for on the back of my DCT6200?

Thanks!

Does anyone know what the ethernet port is for on the back of my DCT6200?

Thanks!It's just for decoration.

Somewhere inside the box there's supposedly a Cable Modem. The ethernet port is its output. If they really wanted to, cable operators like Comcast could use the 6200 as your Cable Modem for high-speed internet, instead of using a separate standalone modem. But they don't. So it's decorative only....

ps - I've always thought using your cable set-top box as your Cable Modem is a dumb idea. The last place I want my cable modem located is in my living room A/V theater rack! I want it downstairs in my wiring closet!

Also, Comcast usually insists on their cable modems being connected on a dedicated splitter immediately off the cable feed from the street. Integrating the modem into your TV set-top kind of defeats that idea...

So, I've heard that some 5100 boxes don't have firewire, which mine does not, but mine also does not have DVI. Is that common? Do I have a very old box?

Also, has anyone managed to set up a TiVo with a moto 5100 box? I've got the component out going to the TV and the s-video out going to the TiVo. That gets me video, but I can't figure out how to get audio to the Tivo. I currently have the RCA audio out from the STB going to the TV. I tried sending the optical audio out to my reciever so I could use the RCA audio outs, but I can't seem to get the optical out to work. Does it only work when recieving a 5.1 signal? Any thoughts would be great!

So, I've heard that some 5100 boxes don't have firewire, which mine does not, but mine also does not have DVI. Is that common? Do I have a very old box?
It has been a while since I had this box, but I thought the 6200 box offered firewire and dvi, not the 5100.